Asian elephants’ habitat shrinkage over three centuries

Asian elephant habitats have experienced a significant decline of almost two-thirds since the 18th century, according to a recent study. The loss corresponds to approximately 3.3 million square kilometres, an area equivalent to the size of India. The study revealed that China had the most significant reduction in suitable elephant habitats in the region – losing 94% of its original habitat, followed closely by India at 86% and Bangladesh at 72%. Thailand, Vietnam, and Sumatra have also experienced a greater than 50% decline in suitable elephant habitats.

Researchers observed a global trend of landscapes being transformed into urban areas, agriculture, and industrial sites, causing the destruction of the elephants’ natural habitats. The international team, consisting of specialists from Australia, Britain, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the United States, and…