Another jumbo with gunshot injuries faces starvation

Giritale Veterinary Officer Dr. Sameera Kalinguarachchi said that providing this animal with an improper variety of food could render the treatment ineffective

By Kanchan Kumara Ariyadasa

 Another elephant suffering from gunshot injuries — known locally as the “Kandalame hadakaaraya” — is reportedly facing starvation after wildlife officers requested the public to refrain from feeding the animal. The elephant, which was shot in the leg, has since become semi-residential in Dambulla. 

Locals claim that the ban on feeding has resulted in the elephant being deprived of sufficient food. While the elephant occasionally rests near the reservoir and gets up again slowly, a few villagers continue to provide it with small amounts of food, they say.  

The elephant has been in poor health for several months due to a gunshot wound to its front leg. Wildlife officers have administered treatment on several occasions following complaints from residents. According to villagers, both the Minister and Deputy Minister of Environment have visited to inspect the condition of the injured animal.  

When contacted, Giritale Veterinary Officer Dr. Sameera Kalinguarachchi said that providing this animal with an improper variety of food could render the treatment ineffective.