Karmactive Staff
A female Sumatran elephant died in a river accident at Bali Zoo on December 16, 2024. Molly, aged 45, was swept away by strong currents during her daily routine walk.
The incident occurred when a handler led Molly across the river to her play area. “Due to heavy rainfall, the river’s water level rose suddenly, creating a very strong current. In this situation, Molly lost her balance and was swept away,” said Emma Chandra, Bali Zoo spokeswoman.
Local residents aided zoo staff in an overnight search operation. Search teams found Molly’s body at 6:30 am on December 17, 2024, in a rocky section of the river. The zoo plans to bury her on the grounds.
“We at Bali Zoo are deeply saddened and grieving the loss of Molly. She was a treasured member of our family since 2013,” Chandra stated.
Sumatran Elephant Population Status
World Wildlife Fund (WWF) data shows only 2,400-2,800 Sumatran elephants remain globally. These elephants face extinction due to three main threats:
- Rampant deforestation reducing natural habitats
- Increasing human-elephant conflicts
- Illegal poaching for tusks
Environmental Conditions
Torrential rains have affected multiple Indonesian regions over the past month. These weather conditions have caused widespread flooding and landslides across the area, impacting both wildlife and human populations.
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Conservation Impact
The death reduces the population of this critically endangered species. Wild Sumatran elephants continue to lose habitat through deforestation. This habitat loss forces elephants into human-populated areas, leading to conflicts.
Poaching remains a persistent threat. The illegal wildlife trade targets these elephants specifically for their tusks, further decreasing their numbers.
Community Response
Local community members participated in the search efforts, working alongside zoo staff throughout the night. This cooperation between the zoo and local residents proved essential in locating Molly.
The zoo will focus on evacuating Molly’s body and preparing for her burial. These procedures follow standard protocols for deceased zoo animals.
