Death of a makhna elephant in Malayattoor forests,Ernakulam district,raises fresh concerns over elephant deaths driven by humans in Kerala. Happened Saturday, June 27,2026. Latest in troubling pattern in Parambikulam-Munnar–Malayattoor area,where elephants face increased risk .
Forest officials now probing how the elephant died. Early findings suggest it consumed fruit laced with explosives. Incident follows another death in May,when a tusker died after biting an explosive-filled jackfruit in Kuttampuzha forest. A tribesperson was arrested in that case,showing conflict between wildlife and locals.
These recent deaths tied to human actions . Study by expert team led by Pramod G. Krishnan, former Chief Wildlife Warden of Kerala, reviewed elephant mortality from 2019 to 2024. Electrocution now top unnatural death cause,incidents tripled over six years . Report warns of explosives and poaching dangers,especially for young elephants often trapped by snares meant for wild boar.
Beyond Malayattoor,other areas with high mortality include Wayanad landscape, Nilambur region,Periyar-Ranni-Konni landscape. Tragic 2020 death of pregnant elephant in Silent Valley,from explosive-laden fruit injuries,sparked outrage. Elephant had severe mouth injuries,couldn't eat,found in river,seeking relief from pain .
From April 2019 to March 2025,study estimated 744 wild elephant deaths,with 77 from human causes. Munnar and Ranni noted for high electrocution rates. As human-elephant conflicts rise,local authorities feel pressure to find answers.
State Forest Minister Shibu Baby John called for thorough probe into latest incident. He stressed government's working on short- and long-term conflict solutions. Post-mortem showed septicaemia from injuries as death cause. Chief Wildlife Warden P. Pugazhendi said investigation looking at mild explosives or elephant infighting as possible injury causes.
P. Karthik,Divisional Forest Officer for Malayattoor,confirmed preliminary investigation started. Urgent need for measures to protect elephants and communities. Conflict cycle continues…
