Why is Sulong the elephant trekking 100km back home?

Question

Accepted Answer

Sulong the Elephant is Trekking 100km Back Home Due to Instinct and Homesickness Following Relocation

Sulong, an injured wild male elephant, is undertaking a journey of approximately 100 kilometers across the Titiwangsa Range along the East-West Highway to return to his original habitat in Gua Musang, Kelantan. This arduous trek began after he was relocated to Gerik, Perak, indicating a strong instinctual drive to return to familiar territory. Despite an injury to his right front leg, Sulong's condition is reported as stable, and he is feeding regularly, with the wound showing signs of recovery.
Sulong's Relocation and Subsequent Journey

Sulong was recently captured and relocated from Gua Musang to the forests of Gerik, Perak, following complaints from residents about elephants entering plantations and posing a danger. However, several days after his release into the Gerik jungle, Sulong was observed heading eastward along the Gerik-Jeli route, demonstrating a clear intent to return to Gua Musang. His journey commenced around August 17, highlighting a rapid response to his new environment by attempting to revert to his previous home range.
The Role of Instinct and Homesickness

It is widely believed that Sulong is driven by homesickness and an innate instinct to return to his original home in Gua Musang. This drive has compelled him to traverse significant distances, navigating the Titiwangsa Range despite his injured leg. The animal's behaviour suggests a deep-seated connection to his native habitat, overriding the challenges posed by his injury and the unfamiliar terrain of Gerik.
Monitoring and Public Safety Measures

The Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) is actively monitoring Sulong's movements and welfare throughout his journey. Teams are deployed twice daily, encompassing both day and night hours, to track the elephant and ensure he is safely guided away from oncoming expressway traffic to prevent untoward incidents and maintain road safety. Motorists who have encountered Sulong have reported that he has not displayed aggressive behaviour, further underscoring his focus on reaching his destination.
Public Awareness and Sympathy

Sulong's extraordinary journey gained significant public attention after his story was shared widely on social media platforms, eliciting widespread sympathy and support. The narrative of an injured animal undertaking such a long and determined trek back to his home has resonated with many, prompting an outpouring of prayers and well wishes for his safe return to Gua Musang.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Why is Sulong the elephant trekking 100km back home?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

7

0

0

Share with friends