Human-elephant conflict mitigation measures : lessons from Bangladesh
The Asian elephant plays a crucial role in its forest ecosystem. Commonly referred to as a ‘keystone’ species, it helps to open up forest clearings and distributes the seeds of trees and shrubs. The magnificent animal becomes threatened due to poaching, destruction of forest and conflict with human. In recent years, the magnitude of human-elephant conflict (HEC) has increased due to anthropogenic causes by increased population in many areas of Bangladesh. Due to fragmentation of habitats, elephant ranges in Bangladesh have become confined to small patches occupied by a single or few small herds. Some corridors have been abandoned due to degradation of forest cover, extension of human settlements, development of infrastructure, intensification of agricultural practice, unsustainable slash and burn practice, and unplanned road construction, for example.