Elephant Attempts to Attack Workers in Chachoengsao Province Jocelyn Hong, The 1014 September 16, 2023 See link <https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2023/09/17/officials-track-a-wild-elephant-attacking-a-backhoe-with-drones/> for photos. A recent incident in Chachoengsao Province, Thailand, highlighted the ongoing conflict between elephants and humans as towns continue to expand into the elephants’ natural habitat. A wild female elephant named “Pang Chatri” made an aggressive move towards eucalyptus cutting workers at the Lat Krathing Forest Park area. The workers, upon noticing the approaching elephant, quickly shouted and ran away, leaving only the backhoe tractor driver behind. Despite their efforts to scare the elephant away with firecrackers and noisy bombs, Pang Chatri circled the vehicle for over three hours, attempting to attack the stranded driver. Concerned for the safety of the driver, officials from the Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary were called in to assist. Using infrared heat-sensing drones, they conducted a search for the elephant and eventually managed to help the driver escape from the vehicle. Following this, officials continued to use infrared thermal drones to monitor Pang Chatri’s movements and to prevent her from entering nearby communities during the night. Villagers in the surrounding area were also warned about the presence of the stressed elephant. The incident highlights the ongoing challenge of human-elephant conflict in Chachoengsao Province and other areas where urban development encroaches on elephants’ habitats. As towns expand, elephants are forced to seek food and shelter in unfamiliar areas, leading to encounters with humans and potentially dangerous situations. It is hoped that with measures in place to monitor and protect both elephants and humans, incidents like this can be minimized. Efforts to create awareness among the local communities about living in harmony with elephants are vital in reducing conflicts and ensuring the survival of this majestic species. https://the1014.co.nz/uncategorized/officials-track-a-wild-elephant-attacking-a-backhoe-with-drones/119189/ https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2023/09/17/officials-track-a-wild-elephant-attacking-a-backhoe-with-drones/