Have Karnataka Elephants Found a New Home in Japan?
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Synopsis
Four elephants from Karnataka's Bannerghatta Biological Park have been successfully relocated to Japan, marking a significant milestone in international wildlife exchange. This move not only provides the elephants with a new habitat but also opens doors for rare species to be welcomed into India, enriching wildlife experiences for enthusiasts.
Key Takeaways
- Four elephants relocated to Japan from Bannerghatta Biological Park.
- Successful airlift via Qatar Airways cargo aircraft.
- Elephants underwent three months of specialized training.
- Future exchange includes rare species to India.
- Collaboration between the Central Zoo Authority and embassies.
Bengaluru, July 26 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking international move, four elephants from Bannerghatta Biological Park have been successfully transported to Japan, embarking on an exciting new journey. The authorities at Bannerghatta Biological Park shared footage of the elephants being transported in trucks, resting, and enjoying their meals in their new enclosures in Japan.
The four magnificent pachyderms - Suresh (8), Gauri (9), Shruti (7), and Tulsi (5) - were airlifted from Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru to Kansai International Airport in Osaka on July 24, via a Qatar Airways B777-200F cargo aircraft.
After an extensive journey of over eight hours, they safely arrived in Japan on Friday.
They were then transported in specially designed cages by road to their new home at Himeji Central Park.
A dedicated team from Bannerghatta Biological Park accompanied the elephants throughout their journey, ensuring their comfort and safety. Now in Japan, the elephants are beginning to explore their new surroundings freely in the spacious natural enclosures of Himeji Central Park, marking the start of an exciting new phase in their lives.
In preparation for this significant relocation, the elephants underwent a rigorous three-month training program. A committed team consisting of two veterinary officers, four mahouts, a supervisor, and a biologist accompanied them and will remain in Japan for 15 days to assist the elephants in adjusting to their new environment.
The park is anticipated to soon welcome rare species, including cheetahs, jaguars, pumas, chimpanzees, and capuchin monkeys, in exchange for elephants from Japan, providing wildlife enthusiasts a chance to observe exotic animals in enriched habitats.
This exchange, which has been in the works since 2023, was facilitated through cooperation between the Central Zoo Authority, the Embassies of Japan and India, and various other governmental departments.
Bannerghatta Biological Park was established as a designated section of Bannerghatta National Park (BNP) in 2002. Located near Bengaluru city, within the Anekal range of Karnataka, Bannerghatta National Park spans across two districts: Bengaluru Urban and Bengaluru South. It was declared a National Park in 1974.
The park plays a crucial role as a wildlife corridor for elephants, linking the BR Hills and the Sathyamangalam forests. It is adjacent to the Talli Reserve Forest in the southeast and the Bilikal Forest in the south.
Additionally, Bannerghatta Biological Park is noteworthy for being the first biological park in India to establish a fenced, forested elephant sanctuary. In 2006, it became home to India’s first butterfly enclosure.
Point of View
This significant international transfer of elephants reflects a growing collaboration between India and Japan in wildlife conservation. It showcases the commitment of the Bannerghatta Biological Park to not only ensure the well-being of these elephants but also to enrich biodiversity through future exchanges of rare species.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How were the elephants transported to Japan?
The elephants were airlifted via a Qatar Airways B777-200F cargo aircraft from Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport to Kansai International Airport in Osaka.
What preparations were made for the elephants' relocation?
The elephants underwent three months of specialized training, and a team of veterinary officers and mahouts accompanied them to ensure their safety and comfort.
What species are expected to be welcomed in India?
In exchange for the elephants, rare species such as cheetahs, jaguars, pumas, chimpanzees, and capuchin monkeys are expected to come to India.
What is the significance of Bannerghatta Biological Park?
Bannerghatta Biological Park is India's first biological park to establish a fenced elephant sanctuary and a butterfly enclosure, playing a vital role in wildlife conservation.
What is the future of wildlife exchange between India and Japan?
This exchange marks the beginning of a collaborative effort between the Central Zoo Authority and the respective embassies, paving the way for future wildlife conservation initiatives.
