REVITALISASI KONSERVASI GAJAH SUMATERA DI WAY KAMBAS DAN PERLINDUNGAN GAJAH YANG DIAMBANG KEPUNAHAN

Abstract

Sumatran elephants face serious challenges due to habitat loss that continues every year. Conflicts with humans, illegal poaching for ivory, and habitat shrinkage that reaches 70 to 80 percent are the main threats to the survival of this species. Sumatran elephant habitat requires a variety of favorable conditions, such as the availability of food sources, adequate canopy cover as shelter, and sufficient water availability. In addition, the presence of other species that support the ecosystem is also essential for elephant habitat. Habitat narrowing and overlapping land use are also significant factors in reducing elephant populations over time. In addition, elephant feeding behavior that tends to seek out crops managed by humans also increases conflict with local communities. Limited natural feeding grounds encourage elephants to enter community-owned agricultural areas, which often leads to crop damage and losses for local residents. Therefore, addressing the issue of human-elephant conflict and habitat protection is urgent to maintain the survival of Sumatran elephants and maintain the balance of their ecosystem.