Elephants Called Forest Civil Engineers Amid North Bengal Conflict

A forest official said elephants help build and maintain healthy forests.

Their large feet make paths that many animals and people can use.

Elephants also eat many plants and spread seeds in their dung.

This helps new plants grow in different places.

Their movement can change small waterways and create open spaces for other animals.

But elephants often leave forests to find food.

When they enter villages or cross railway tracks, people and elephants can be harmed.

People living near forests have faced deaths, injuries and crop losses.

The official hopes understanding elephants’ helpful role will encourage people to protect them and reduce conflict.