Elephant conservation must focus on habitat connectivity, says P.S. Easa
Wildlife biologist P.S. Easa argues that habitat fragmentation is the primary threat to elephant populations in India, rather than climate change alone. He emphasizes the need for science-based conservation strategies that prioritize connected habitats and migratory corridors.
Why it matters
Effective elephant conservation is critical for biodiversity and mitigating human-wildlife conflict in India, requiring evidence-based policy over ad-hoc interventions.
Noted wildlife biologist P.S. Easa has attributed habitat loss and fragmentation, rather than climate change alone, as the biggest threats facing elephants in the country.
Delivering the keynote address on a session on elephants at the Wildlife Week conclave organised by Coexistence Collective in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday, Dr. Easa said decisions concerning elephant habitats should be based on scientific understanding, rather than assumptions or ad-hoc interventions.
He pointed out that elephants require large, connected habitats because of their food, water and movement requirements. Fragmentation of habitats isolates elephant populations and can lead to ecological and genetic isolation, the former director of Kerala Forest Research Institute said.
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