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Safety protocol for wild elephant encounters on hiking trails

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J
Jack W.•15885 rep•2

We rented a scooter and will be driving near Habarana What is the absolute safest thing to do if a wild elephant is blocking the road

7
wildlifehikingtransportationsafety

5 Answers from travellers

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STOP immediately. Keep a distance of at least 50 meters. Turn off your engine and your headlights if it is night. DO NOT honk your horn, flash lights, or shout. Wild elephants are easily startled and will charge a scooter in seconds. Wait patiently for the elephant to cross into the jungle. If it walks toward you, back your scooter away slowly.

2
A
Asanka P.•15395 rep•2

Got it. Engine off, stay silent, give them space.

35
J
Jack W.•15885 rep•2

If locals in vans stop and wait, you do the exact same thing. Do not try to be a hero.

20
R
Ruwini S.•15650 rep•2

Also do not throw food at them, it trains them to attack vehicles.

15
A
Asanka P.•15395 rep•2

Never try to speed past them. They move much faster than you think and can easily swipe you off the bike.

5
A
Anna L.•10685 rep•2

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