Musth in Elephant and Its Management

Abstract

Musth is a periodic reproductive phenomenon occurring in Asian and African male elephants in their post-pubertal age. It is characterized by pronounced change in behavior and physiological condition due to increased androgenic hormone which is seen in form of aggressiveness and increased physical activity. The condition is identified by increased swelling of the temporal gland with brownish discharge and the animal behaves erratically. The management of musth is very essential in captive elephants else the animal may destroy property and could hurt, even kill the Mahouts. Musth animal is basically managed by providing ample rest, which often required tranquilization of the animal and later the animal is tied for some days. During this rest period the animal can be given some calming medication and later on treated for its injury and provided with high nutritious feed to regain the lost strength.