Train hits elephants in Sri Lanka, killing four babies and two adults from herd
Four babies and two adults died near Minneriya - part of the "elephant corridor" that connects Kaudulla and Wasgamuwa National Parks
Friday 21 February 2025 11:55, UK
A passenger train has hit a herd of elephants near a wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka, killing six of the animals.
Four babies and two adults died near Minneriya, about 124 miles from the capital, Colombo.
No passengers were injured. Local television channels showed the train engine and several compartments had derailed following the crash.
The country's wildlife department was investigating the collision.
Minneriya National Park draws thousands of tourists each year hoping to see elephants in their wild habitats.
It is part of the "elephant corridor" that connects Kaudulla and Wasgamuwa National Parks.
Train collisions involving elephants have increased in recent years in Sri Lanka, with elephants attempting to cross over railway tracks in search of food and water.
Elephants are increasingly vulnerable because of the loss and degradation of their natural habitat. Many venture closer to human settlements in search of food.
Nine elephants died in 2024 after being struck by trains, compared with 24 in 2023, according to government statistics.
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Some are also killed by poachers or farmers angry over damage to their crops.
Though elephants are revered in Sri Lanka, they are endangered with their numbers dwindling from about 14,000 in the 19th century to 6,000 in 2011, according to the country's first elephant census.