Critically endangered Sumatran elephant calf found dead in Riau
In a statement received in Jakarta on Friday, the Tesso Nilo National Park Agency said the carcass was discovered on Thursday (Feb. 26) at the Lancang Kuning Resort within the park.
Officials said the calf, part of a wild elephant population, was found in an advanced state of decomposition and was estimated to have died about a week before discovery.
Preliminary on-site examinations indicated the suspected cause of death was an infection in the leg, believed to have resulted from a snare wound.
“The medical team of Tesso Nilo National Park immediately carried out further handling, including detailed examinations to scientifically determine the cause of death,” the agency said on its social media account.
The agency said the incident underscored ongoing threats faced by wildlife, particularly Sumatran elephants, in their natural habitat. It called on all stakeholders to strengthen awareness and take an active role in protecting endangered species.
In a separate statement on social media, Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan said he had visited Tesso Nilo National Park following the discovery of the calf’s carcass.
“I was accompanied by the head of the Natural Resources Conservation Agency and senior Riau Police officials to ensure the handling process is serious, measured and based on scientific examination,” he said.
Initial indications pointed to a leg infection allegedly caused by a snare, he added, but the exact cause of death would depend on necropsy results and further medical investigation.
Heryawan said conclusions about the case remained preliminary and stressed that if criminal elements were found, police would pursue legal action in accordance with applicable laws.
The Sumatran elephant is listed as critically endangered, with habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict and poaching contributing to a declining population across Sumatra.
According to figures published on the official website of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the population of Sumatran elephants is estimated at around 2,400–2,800 individuals.
The world’s leading wildlife conservation organization has said that ivory can still be found in markets across Africa and Asia, as well as in the United States and Europe.
WWF has noted that poaching for the illegal ivory trade remains a serious threat to wild elephant populations in several countries.
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Translator: Prisca TV, Rahmad Nasution