Assessing protected area networks in the conservation of elephants (Elephas Maximus) in Sri Lanka

Protected areas play a crucial role in the conservation and management of wildlife, but land use cover change (LULCC) threatens status protected areas. Sri Lanka has history severe human–elephant conflict (HEC). In last 15 years, recorded highest mortality elephants second-highest human casualties among countries where Asian elephant is native. this study, we conducted whole country analysis effect LULCC on using map (1993–2018) recently developed by authors Landsat satellite data. area performances were measured five criteria including LULCC, areas, categorised into three performance levels. The then compared with number HEC incidents. We found that 12% Lanka's was affected events, every individual experienced LULCC. also 86% death incidents occurred within 5 km radius strong negative correlation distance from (r = –0.94, p < 0.05). Some 43% 23% deaths inside while 40% two years These to fragment over time increased, showed positive correlation, fragmentation 0.88, Wildlife regions higher greater deaths, moderately 0.54, Irrespective level performance, all reported as well incidents, indicating are failing protect endangered Elephas maximus population Lanka. country-wide insights can be used re-evaluate function effectiveness managing mitigating providing protection