Tragic End During Tiger Census: Wildlife Watcher's Encounter with Elephant

A wildlife official, Kalimuthu, part of a team conducting a tiger census in the Attappadi forest range, was killed by a wild elephant. The incident occurred as the three-member team was returning, causing panic and minor injuries to other members. Kalimuthu was found dead by authorities later.

A tragic incident unfolded in the northern district when a wildlife official was killed by a wild elephant, police reported on Saturday.

Kalimuthu, aged 52 and serving as a forest department watcher, was identified as the victim. The fatal event occurred inside the Attappadi forest range where a team of three wildlife officials, including Kalimuthu, was engaged in tiger census activities.

As the team was returning, a wild elephant charged at them, causing panic. While the other two members escaped with minor injuries, Kalimuthu's body was discovered later in proximity, as confirmed by the police. Known to belong to the Nellipathi tribal settlement in Agali, Kalimuthu's death has sparked concern among local authorities and the wildlife community.

(With inputs from agencies.)