Scars of human–elephant conflict: patterns inferred from field observations of Asian elephants in Sri Lanka

摘要: Abstract Context Human–elephant conflict (HEC) is a major threat to Asian elephants as humans and are forced share common resources. In Sri Lanka, human-dominated landscapes adjacent protected areas promote high rates of HEC, especially in the form crop-foraging by elephants. Crop-foraging can be dangerous both involved conflict. Gunfire way for human communities deter elephants, gunshot wounds commonly described this elephant population on necropsy. Aims We sought quantify describe unique scar patterns among area, Wasgamuwa National Park, attributed HEC. Methods identified 38 adult female 64 male recorded age class body condition each with established standards. Using photographs, we counted number, position, relative size all scars animal. Key results Male had significantly more than did females, males, number increased progressively age. Additionally, higher conditions scars. Finally, males tended have towards head, at older ages. Conclusions Differences total counts between sexes imply that area frequently engage HEC do following observations previously literature. Furthermore, fact acquired they aged, fatter scars, indicates previous exposure may not been deterrent future events these potentially, crops served valuable food sources animals. changing locations possibly shows plastic behavioural responses during or lower tolerance farmers habitual crop foragers. Implications These emphasise need animal-based approaches mitigation. Similarly, conservation managers Lanka other range countries should investigate similar methods estimate develop effective management strategies directly targeting animals most likely