Census on wild elephants in Sri Lanka after 12 years

• The last census of elephants was held in Sri Lanka during the year 2011

The Department of Wildlife is planning to hold a census on wild elephants in Sri Lanka next month.  Sources from the department said the census will be held on August 19 and 20 this year. It has been estimated that a total number of 4500 officers would be needed for the exercise.   

However the assistance of police and the army will also be sought as well. Training of officers for the census has already begun according to department sources.  The last census of elephants was held in Sri Lanka during the year 2011. Accordingly it was found out that there were 5878 wild elephants in Sri Lanka during that time.