Thailand’s growing elephant population must be stopped. The Ministry of the Environment wants to give the majestic animals contraceptive injections that can prevent pregnancy for several years. Fatal incidents have occurred too often in the past.
Research has shown that vaccinations with the long-term immunocontraceptive “SpayVac” have no side effects for the animals.
According to authorities, about 4,000 wild elephants currently live in the Southeast Asian kingdom. The birth rate is rising and this number could rise to at least 6,000 in the next four years. This is not compatible with the available forest areas.
Deadly attacks on people
Dangerous and sometimes fatal encounters with humans are already occurring again and again because of the shrinking habitat. Since 2012, at least 240 people have been killed by wild elephant attacks and more than 200 others have been injured.
Goal: “Harmonious coexistence”
The initiative is primarily aimed at reducing conflicts and attacks, “which will ultimately lead to a sustainable and harmonious coexistence between humans and animals,” said the Minister of the Environment. A test run of the contraceptives will take place in forests in Thailand’s eastern regions early this year. If this is successful, other regions with large elephant populations should follow suit.
Elephants are considered good luck charms
The Thais actually have a special love for the majestic animals: in virtually no other country are elephants as revered as here – they are the national animal and are also considered a good luck charm. Most temples, as well as shrines and home altars, feature elephant figures of all sizes and colors.
Source: Krone
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