Herd of unhinged elephants threatens to storm into Chinese metropolis | Abroad

The herd left a reserve in southwestern China three months ago and has traveled some 500 kilometers since then. On their path, the 15 Asian elephants cause considerable damage to crops. Asian elephants can reach six meters in length and three meters in height.

The herd initially consisted of sixteen animals, but two decided to turn around and another baby elephant was born along the way. The youngster now walks bravely from village to village.

20 kilometers to go

Often the authorities have to stop traffic because the animals threaten to cross busy roads or continue their journey on the highway. With food, the animals are lured in a different direction. It is hoped that the elephants will return to more remote forest areas on their own, but that does not seem to be the case yet. The herd is now located 20 kilometers from the Chinese metropolis.

According to experts, it has never happened in China before that a herd went so far from ‘home’. The group may have gone astray because the leader of the herd is said to be relatively inexperienced.

Last week, the herd walked for six hours in the city of Eshan. Residents had to stay indoors. There were no injuries.

–