File photo for reference only

Thailand has initiated its first wild elephant birth control program, vaccinating three female elephants in Trat province on January 25. The operation by the Department of National Parks aims to manage the rising elephant population, which has grown from 334 in 2015 to 799 projected in 2025. This increase has led to more elephants encroaching on human settlements due to insufficient resources in their natural habitats.

The vaccination took place in Bo Rai district at Khlong Kaeo Waterfall National Park, conducted by veterinarians from the Wildlife Conservation Office in collaboration with Chiang Mai University. The contraceptive used is a non-surgical vaccine that stimulates the immune system to prevent fertilization, effective for up to seven years. It has been tested on African elephants and domesticated elephants in Thailand, proving to be 100% safe without affecting normal behaviors or fertility after seven years unless re-administered.

Photo from DNP News

Director of the Wildlife Conservation Office, Sukhee Boonsang, highlighted the urgency of the project due to a growth rate of 8.2% in the elephant population. The increase has resulted in 141 human deaths and 170 injuries since 2012, alongside significant agricultural damage. The contraceptive program seeks to create a sustainable balance, reducing potential conflicts and ecological strain.

The vaccination was executed between 9pm and 10pm using air-powered darts without anaesthesia, ensuring safety. The team plans to monitor the elephants for 48 hours post-vaccination and conduct assessments every 6-8 months over seven years. Sukhee warned of the dangers of unchecked population growth, asserting the importance of humane population control for both elephant welfare and human coexistence.

In related developments, a foreign national was criticized by Thai netizens for flying a drone near elephants in Khao Yai National Park, breaching regulations and causing distress to the animals, reported The Thaiger.

Key Takeaways

• Thailand launched a wild elephant birth control program in Trat province.

• Vaccination ensures safe population management without affecting behavior.

• Human-elephant conflicts have risen due to population growth and habitat strain.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2026-01-27

 

 

Better to sterilise the humans than the elephants 🐘

I've a picture in my head of Marlin in a recliner sipping a martini in his field tent saying,

"we'll hang back for now while Jim fits the bull elephants with condoms."

13 hours ago, NoDisplayName said:

"we'll hang back for now while Jim fits the bull elephants with condoms

Which brings to mind an old elephant joke ..................

Why do elephants have four feet ? Cause they would look silly with 6 inches. :)

Obviously, people are the problem not elephants. Designate more natural places, see less conflict.

Why isn't there seven year birth control for humans?