Wildlife divn issues advisory on wild elephants in Niuland

The wildlife warden, wildlife division Dimapur, has issued an advisory on the presence of wild elephants at Hovishe and adjoining villages under Niuland district.
In an advisory, wildlife warden H. Tokaho Kinimi, stated that sighting of a herd of wild elephants with a calf in and around Hovishe village and neighbouring areas under Niuland district had been confirmed. The wildlife warden has requested all residents to take serious note of its advisory.
Kinimi stated that a herd of wild elephants has moved into the periphery of cultivated lands in search of food and water, a natural and seasonal phenomenon due to temporary depletion of forest forage. The residents have been advised not to attempt to chase, confront, or harass the elephants. The wildlife warned stated that such acts could provoke aggression, especially from the mother elephant and the herds, and result in serious injury, property destruction, and loss of life.
Further, residents have been advised not to enter forested areas, elephant corridors, or nearby streams during late hours where elephants were likely to forage or drink. The wildlife warden has suggested restriction on all movement near forest boundaries until the herd has moved away.
Residents have been urged to remain alert during early morning and late evening hours, when elephants are typically most active.
The wildlife warden has also advised against use of firecrackers, loud noises, or spotlights to drive away wild elephants from forested areas as such disturbances cause panic and unpredictable behaviour.
The wildlife warned reminded that wild elephants cannot be forcibly driven away as they follow age-old migratory routes.
Villagers have been encouraged to adopt the department’s demonstrated repellent measures, such as chilli rope fences, natural deterrents, and controlled noise techniques, strictly under departmental guidance.
The wildlife warden stated that all reports, sightings, or assistance requests must be coordinated only through the village council or its officially nominated representatives. The wildlife division has appealed for patience, calm, and community cooperation to ensure safety for both people and wildlife.