A remarkable herd of 42 wild Asian elephants has been spotted in Mengla County, located in southwest China’s Yunnan Province, marking the largest group ever observed in the area. Footage captured by local monitoring teams shows the elephants navigating through the lush landscapes, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of these majestic creatures.
Drone infrared thermal imaging revealed three adult elephants cautiously descending from the mountains towards cornfields near a river. They were soon joined by 39 other members of their herd, creating a breathtaking procession through Mengban Town.
According to local forestry officials, this unprecedented sighting surpasses previous records, emphasizing the importance of the region as a habitat for wild Asian elephants. In April, a herd of 41 elephants was also observed near the Shangyong Protection Area in Mengla County.
To ensure the safety of both the elephants and nearby residents, the local government has deployed monitoring teams to track the herd’s movements in real time. These efforts aim to promote harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife, highlighting the significance of conservation initiatives in the region.
The presence of such a large herd underscores the success of conservation efforts in Yunnan Province, reflecting China’s commitment to preserving biodiversity and protecting endangered species.
Reference(s):
Large wild Asian elephant herd spotted in southwest China's Yunnan
cgtn.com
