#bullhook

  The mahout (elephant rider & caretaker) is always in possession of the following two tools; the bull hook or aṅkuśa and a knife. The bull hook is used to train and control the elephant. It’s a sharp metal hook and the design is meant to cause pain by stabbing sensitive areas on the elephants head.

 Captive elephants used in the tourist industry for trekking or circus-type shows live in constant fear. Sometimes an elephant retaliates, and people’s lives are in danger, on such occasions, this is when the knife is needed. Something to consider if you have the opportunity to ride an elephant or look at an elephant show.

A fresh wound near the elephant’s ear and older wounds on the forehead caused by the use of a bull hook.

Captive elephants are not domesticated like other livestock animals, they are still born with their natural wild instincts and behaviors. To control and train a young elephant safely in captivity it must first be broken in to accept human control. It is a traumatising process for the young elephant having all limbs tied to restrict movement while being beaten, shouted at  and pierced by hooks and sticks till eventually their spirits are broken and will forever be fearful of the mahout. They are always chained when they are not working or performing with short lengths that restrict movement. 

A mahout fastening a chain around an elephant’s leg after a trekking tour. 

Some people and organisations are trying to bring about change; they are promoting awareness and the mindset of the industry to alternatives that are more natural and sustainable.  They are also providing a natural habitat for elephants rescued from the trade. One such person is Miguel Tenorio, a lawyer turned conservationist and founder of Conserve Natural Forest a recently formed NGO. They acquired 12 acres of abandoned farmland with a stream and have planted trees to prepare a home for rescued elephants.

 View of the 12-acre land acquired by Conserve Natural Forests.

Miguel watering saplings at the nursery on the 12 acre land. 

 Miguel meets with local elephant owners in the hopes of convincing them to give up their elephants from the trade and offer them a more free and natural way of living. It is not that easy though for most of the owners as it is their only form of income.  Miguel’s long-term goal is to create an elephant sanctuary where elephants can reproduce and be introduced back to the wild.

Miguel stops at an elephant trekking camp to look at one of the elephants.

 It is important to note that my intention is not to blame or point fingers at mahouts or business that use elephants for profit. These are traditions that are centuries old and it will take some time before things change to more sustainable means. It can be achieved if everyone does their part and work together.