Sri Lanka wild elephant population rises to 7,451, latest survey reveals

Sri Lanka’s wild elephant population increased to an estimated 7,451 animals, according to the latest nationwide elephant survey conducted by the Department of Wildlife Conservation in 2024, Environment Minister Dammika Patabendi said.

The survey showed a significant increase in the elephant population of the country compared to previous counts carried out over the past three decades, the minister said when speaking on the findings.

Official records indicate that the wild elephant population of Sri Lanka stood at 1,967 in 1993, while a subsequent elephant census conducted in 2011 recorded 5,879 elephants across the island.

At least 7,451 wild elephants roam Sri Lanka according to the 2024 elephant survey, meaning the elephant population expanded by about 26.7% , Patabendi said.

The number of tuskers in the country grew by 9.2% , indicating clear growth within the population of elephants with tusks, the minister noted.

A 9.2% increase occurred in the population of tuskers, and overall growth remains clearly visible within the elephant population of Sri Lanka, the minister added.