Bhogeshwara-like jumbos with gigantic tusks spotted near Kabini backwaters

Milton.Lawrence
Mysuru: The recent death of Bhogeshwara, an elephant which was said to have had the longest tusks among Asian elephants — almost touching the ground — had disappointed wildlife enthusiasts, but to their surprise, the officials have identified three more such tuskers in the region.
One elephant similar to Bhogeshwara with long tusks was found roaming near the backwater of Kapila River running inside the tiger reserve, in the DB Kuppe Range in Nagarahole Forest. Beat-duty forest personnel have also seen two other elephants with long tusks, in the same region.
Unlike Bhogeshwara, who was called ‘Mr Kabini,’ who was seen alone in the forest, these three tuskers are among a herd of elephants. The one with the longest tusk, presently, was noticed in a group of 20 elephants. Bhogeshwara got its name as it was mostly seen near the Bhogeshwara temple premises inside the forest area. Tourists were thrilled by seeing Bhogeshwara all these years and now will get to see three other elephants akin to him during the safari.
A senior officer confirmed to TOI that the tusker could be around 50 years going by the length of its tusk, which is almost touching ground and is in U shape with the edge of the tusks touching each other.
The pachyderm appears healthy and mild like Bhogeshwara as it didn’t panic on seeing the personnel and visitors. The tusker appears heavier than Bhogeshwara, who died around the age of 60, a few days previously in Gundre Range of Bandipur forest.
The tusks of Bhogeshwara were removed before leaving the body where it was found dead. The new guidelines say carcasses of animals like elephants, tigers, and leopards should not be cremated like earlier as it could serve as food for other creatures. Tusks have been preserved and are likely to be displayed at a forest museum for visitors in Mysuru city in near future, said the official.