The Sri Lankan elephant (Elephas maximus maximus), known as ‘etha’ or ‘aliya’ in Sinhala and ‘yanai’ in Tamil, is a subspecies of the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) native to Sri Lanka. These elephants are slightly larger and darker in colour compared to other subspecies, with males generally larger than females. Females can be distinguished by their more box-shaped rear, and while only males bear tusks, it is estimated that just 7% of Sri Lankan male elephants have them. According to a 2011 survey by the Department of Wildlife and Conservation, approximately 5,879 elephants remain in the wild on the island.

Sri Lankan elephants are herbivorous mixed feeders, and can consume up to 150 kg of plant matter per day. Males often live alone or in small bachelor groups, while females and young form a hierarchical herd led by a dominant female known as the matriarch. The matriarch, usually the largest and oldest female, determines the herd’s movements and activities.

During mating seasons, which occur once or twice a year, males enter a state called musth, during which testosterone levels rise significantly. This leads to the secretion of fluid from the temporal glands between the eyes and ears, as well as more aggressive behavior. After a gestation period of 18 to 22 months, the female gives birth to a single calf, which can weigh up to 100 kg.