Sri Lankan elephants (Elephas maximus maximus) are considered as an endangered species and their survival in their natural habitats is threatened due to human activities. Consequently elephants in the wild are constantly being killed and many elephant calves become orphaned. Therefore in 1995, Department of Wildlife Conservation in Sri Lanka, in an attempt to support the orphaned calves from the other areas of the island, set up the Elephant Transit Centre (ETC) within Udawalawe National Park itself with the support of Born Free Foundation. The park was established under the 29th Amendment to the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance Part II Currently 39 orphaned elephant calves are being looked after. The elephant calves are released to the jungle after they become strong enough to survive in their natural habitats. As of 2008, sixty-five elephants have been released to the jungle.
The main objective of this centre is rehabilitation of orphaned baby elephants until they grow stronger and are released into their natural habitat. Therefore Department of Wildlife Conservation plays a major role in this procedure. Furthermore to improve the facilities at Elephant Transit Centre, the department has decided to obtain the participation of public as well as private sector assistance to look after the elephants, launching the Foster-Parent Scheme. The expected cost of look after a baby elephant is high. The donations mainly for milk and medicines.
Look after of the baby elephants is entirely done by the specially trained working staff. Outsiders could not allowed to reach beyond the fences. There is perfect veterinary programme conducted by the centre for 24 hours. The elephants are kept at part of an Udawalawa National Park to familiar with their habitat. The visitors can watch the elephants during their feeding times.
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