In the heart of Sri Lanka, the UNESCO biodiversity hotspot, the Sinharaja Forest Complex, was once home to a small group of elephants. Over time, for reasons still unclear—whether due to natural causes or human impact—this group has dwindled to just two male elephants. These last two survivors are now facing inevitable extinction.
World Elephant Day: A Pledge to Remember
On World Elephant Day (August 12th, 2024), Dilmah Tea, in collaboration with the Department of Wildlife Conservation and the Forest Department of Sri Lanka, made a commitment. We pledged to document the lives of these two elephants—aptly named The Last Two Giants of Sinharaja—until their final days. This effort is not just about recording their existence but also about understanding the lessons their lives can teach us. While the thought of their extinction is heartbreaking, we hope that studying their journey will provide valuable insights to help protect other Sri Lankan elephants that still thrive in different parts of the island.
A Day of Reflection and Hope
The official announcement was made at the Elephant Transit Home (ETH), with Professors Nimal Gunathilleke and Savitri Gunatilleke from the University of Peradeniya. These renowned researchers have been dedicated to the conservation of the Sinharaja Forest Reserve since the 1970s, making their presence at the event deeply significant.
Dilmah’s Commitment to Elephant Conservation
Our commitment to elephant conservation is not new. Since 2009, we have partnered with the Department of Wildlife Conservation through the Elephant Transit Home. Over the years, we’ve contributed to several initiatives:
The Elephant Knowledge Walk: An educational initiative at the ETH premises aimed at raising awareness about the importance of elephant conservation.
Radio-Collaring for Research: We have supported the radio-collaring of two elephants to aid scientific research on their behavior and movements.
Rehabilitation of Orphaned Elephants: Supporting the rehabilitating and release of three orphaned baby elephants – Amaya, Ted and Baby Dilmah – back into the wild once they reach the appropriate age. We adopted the fourth elephant Dilly in 2023.
Looking Forward
As we continue to document The Last Two Giants of Sinharaja, we are reminded of the importance of conservation efforts not just for these elephants but for all wildlife in Sri Lanka. The insights gained from this documentation will be crucial in shaping future conservation strategies to ensure that other elephants do not meet the same fate.
Our work with the Elephant Transit Home and our ongoing efforts to protect Sri Lanka’s elephants reflect our commitment to make the world a better tea both the environment and the community.
Learn more about our elephant conservation initatives here
