Elephant-Resistant Crop Protection Methods

This can lead to economic losses, human-elephant conflict, and even loss of life.

Photo by ben o'bro on Unsplash

Physical Barriers (Elephant Fencing)

• What it is: Construct elephant-proof fences around farms or villages. These fences can be made using a combination of metal wire, electricity, or even natural materials like thorny bushes that elephants find difficult to break through.
• How it helps: This method physically prevents elephants from accessing the crops. The key is making the fence high, strong, and electrified, as elephants are large and can push over weaker barriers.
• Example: In some African countries, farmers have used elephant deterrent fencing with electric wires to keep elephants out of fields.

Elephant-Deterrent Planting

• What it is: Grow crops or plants around the boundary of fields that elephants naturally avoid, like chilli plants or lemongrass. Elephants are sensitive to strong smells and tastes, so these plants can act as a natural repellent.
• How it helps: This creates a barrier that not only deters elephants but also has the potential to act as a second source of income for farmers (by selling the chilli or lemongrass).

Beehive Fences