Removing exotic plants will ensure food for wild animals, ‚nds study
Removing exotic plants from forest areas will help ensure food for wild elephants at Chinnakkanal in Munnar, says a study by the Kerala State Forest Protective Sta¤ Organisation, an association of frontline forest ocers.
A group of ground forest team, including deputy rangers, watchers, and a protection watchers team, visited Chinnakkanal recently and interacted with local people and panchayat ocials about steps to mitigate human-elephant con¦ict in the region.
KSFPSO district secretary Santhosh P.G. says removing exotic species such as Acacia mearnsii (black wattle) and eucalyptus from forests is vital to addressing the problems.
“In many areas in forests ¢lled with exotic trees, no other plants are growing. Wild animals, including elephants, are unable to move through these areas. If these areas change to natural grasslands, it will ensure food and water for wild elephants. The report will be submitted to the government soon,” he says.
“The Chinnakkanal landscape is overrun by West Indian Lantana (kongini), inhibiting the growth of other species and restricting access to animals,” says Mr. Santhosh.
According to ocials, 19 wild elephants, including two tuskers Chakkakompan and Murivalan Kompan, ¢ve male calves, and 12 female elephants, have been con¢ned to the Chinnakkanal landscape. An expert panel appointed by the High Court to address human-animal con¦ict in the region has recommended reopening the elephant corridor from Anayirankal to Old Devikulam in Munnar for facilitating the movement of elephants.