Changing trends in elephant camp management in northern Thailand and implications for welfare.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Elephant camps are among the most attractive destinations in Thailand for tourists from many countries. A wide range of management strategies are used by these camps, which can have varied impacts on health and welfare of elephants.

Methods

This study surveyed 33 camps with 627 elephants in northern Thailand to quantify the types of management practices and work activities experienced by captive elephants. The survey consisted of an interview with camp owners, and direct observations of camp operations.

Results

Data revealed considerable variation in elephant demographics, work activities, elephant care (i.e., housing, restraint, nutrition, health care, and breeding), and mahout management among the camps. In general, older camps (those in existence for >16

SUBMITTER: Bansiddhi P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6254247 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature