A study published in Scientific Reports reveals that suitable habitats for Asian elephants have decreased by over 64%—approximately 3.3 million square kilometers—since 1700. Conducted by Shermin de Silva, the research assessed changes in elephant ecosystems across 13 Asian countries from 850 to 2015. In 1700, 100% of the area within 100 km of current elephant ranges was classified as suitable habitat; by 2015, this figure dropped to less than 49%. Countries such as China and India faced severe losses, with around 94% and 86% of suitable habitats gone, respectively. The study attributes this significant habitat reduction to colonial-era land use and intensified agricultural practices. As elephants lose their habitats, human-wildlife conflicts may increase, necessitating urgent sustainable land-use and conservation strategies. The research emphasizes understanding historical landscape changes to inform future conservation efforts that balance the needs of both elephants and human populations. The findings call for greater awareness and proactive measures to protect the remaining habitats essential for the survival of Asian elephants.
