Comparative Study of Behavioral Aspects of Wild and Domesticated Elephants in Palakad District of Kerala

Elephants (Elephas maximus) are keystone species in forest ecosystems and hold cultural significance in Kerala. This study aims to compare the behavioural patterns of 20 wild and 10 domesticated elephants in the Palakkad district, focusing on foraging behaviour, food preferences, stress levels, and overall activity budgets. Data were collected over six months using focal sampling and scan sampling techniques. Stress levels were assessed through behavioural indicators such as stereotypic movements, aggression, and social interactions. Results revealed significant behavioural differences. Wild elephants allocated approximately 65% of their active time to foraging, while domesticated elephants spent only 30%, relying primarily on human-provided food. Wild elephants exhibited a diverse diet comprising over 40 plant species, whereas domesticated elephants had a restricted diet of cultivated fodder, supplemented with fruits and rice. Stress-related behaviours, including head-bobbing, swaying, and vocal distress calls, were observed in 70% of domesticated elephants but were absent in wild individuals. Social interactions were more dynamic among wild elephants, with frequent bonding behaviours such as trunk intertwining and cooperative foraging. In contrast, domesticated elephants displayed limited social engagement due to isolation or controlled interactions. Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences (p < 0.05) in foraging time, social behaviour, and stress levels between the groups. These findings underscore the profound impact of captivity on elephant behaviour, emphasizing the need for improved management strategies, enriched environments, and social opportunities for domesticated elephants. Conservation efforts should prioritize habitat protection to sustain the natural behaviours of wild populations. Further research incorporating physiological stress markers and larger sample sizes is recommended to deepen our understanding of domestication's long-term effects on elephant well-being.