Vietnam’s wild elephant population has declined dramatically in recent years and could disappear without a concerted conservation effort, according to Flora and Fauna International, a U.K.-based group. FFI’s latest research shows a mere 111 elephants in the wild in Vietnam, down from about 2,000 in 1990. The group blamed the drop on the loss of forest habitat, the capture of elephants for domestic use, and hunting. FFI suggests creating sanctuaries for wild elephants and launching education campaigns about the plight of the animals.
