KOTA KINABALU: A female adult pygmy elephant was found dead at an estate in Ulu Tungku, Lahad Datu.

       The elephant, believed to be about 25 years of age, was discovered partially submerged in a swampy area of the Ladang Pelita oil palm estate a few days ago.

       Estate workers who saw the carcass informed their supervisor before the matter was reported to wildlife officials.

       State Wildlife Department director Augustine Tuuga, when contacted on Thursday (March 10), said initial examination on the exterior body did not show signs of injuries or gunshot wounds.

       He said blood and other samples have been taken from the carcass to determine the cause of death.

       “We received information on this elephant on Tuesday (March 8), and rangers as well as vets were sent to respond,” he said.

       Tuuga said though there is a possibility that the elephant died due to poisoning, they have to conduct tests to find out further.