As human settlements encroach on elephant habitat, conflict over crops and space increases. Both elephant and human welfare are affected, requiring integrated solutions.
Elephant-human conflict creates acute welfare problems on both sides. Elephants killed in retaliation die by shooting or poisoning - both causing significant suffering. Culled elephants in management programs may be killed by methods that cause prolonged death if not carried out precisely. Crop-raiding elephants that are repeatedly chased experience chronic stress. Calves separated from groups during conflict events face starvation. Solutions that reduce conflict - beehive fences that elephants avoid, GPS collaring, and revenue-sharing from tourism - protect both human livelihoods and elephant welfare.