CHATURANGA PRADEEP SAMARAWICKRAMA 
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‘Kandalama Hedakaraya’ dies after months of treatment
The wild elephant known as ‘Kandalama Hedakaraya,’ who had been receiving treatment in the Kandalama area under the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC), has died this evening, the Department said.
The animal, estimated to be between 25 and 30 years old, had been under veterinary care since March 30, 2025, after officials were alerted to its condition. Initial examinations revealed a foreleg injury suspected to have been caused by gunshots, with X-ray scans detecting four metallic objects lodged beneath the skin near the joint.
The wild elephant that received gunshot injuries had been lying in the Kandalama tank. The DWC said the elephant had been shot on several occasions as a result of ongoing human-elephant conflict.
Veterinary teams administered antibiotics and other essential medication according to a treatment plan, carrying out regular follow-ups, blood tests, and X-ray scans. The first blood test showed the elephant was suffering from anemia, likely due to infection, prompting the administration of iron supplements and vitamins. Kidney function tests were also conducted due to the high risk of organ failure.
A second blood test indicated a slight improvement in red blood cell count, though recovery remained below expectations. Responding to public requests, the DWC allowed a registered traditional medical practitioner to provide complementary treatment under supervision. However, subsequent tests revealed worsening anemia and signs of severe kidney damage.
Veterinary Officer Dr. Sameera Kaligunarachchi, who arrived today to continue treatment, found the elephant had died. A post-mortem examination will be carried out tomorrow (14) by the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Peradeniya.
The DWC expressed deep regret over the loss, noting the challenges of rehabilitating elephants with severe injuries and infections. It thanked the local community for their assistance during the treatment process and urged the public to help protect wild elephants by reporting those involved in illegal activities such as unauthorized firearm use, ‘jaw bombs,’ (Hakka Patas) and electrocution.
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