Musth in male elephants is a natural hormonal state requiring specific management in captive settings to ensure both elephant and keeper welfare.
Male elephants in musth experience intense hormonal changes driving natural breeding behavior that is severely restricted in captivity. Traditional management involving physical restraint during musth causes welfare harm. Protected contact management systems that maintain physical barriers while allowing behavioral expression are safer for both elephants and keepers. Adequate space, environmental enrichment, and social options reduce musth stress.