DeceasedWild Tuskerc. 1967 – 2017 (Aged approx. 50)

Galgamuwa Dala Poottuwa

ගල්ගමුවේ දළ පූට්ටුවා
Galgamuwa Dala Poottuwa
The iconic Galgamuwa Dala Poottuwa displaying his distinctive crossed ivory tusksCredit: Wanali Archival Wildlife Reconstruction Studio (Creative Commons CC-BY 4.0)

Archival Field Dossier

Roaming TerritoryGalgamuwa and Sorabora Reserve, North Western Province
Habitat SanctuaryGalgamuwa, Reswehera, and Siyambalangamuwa forests
Geographic Coordinates8.0125 N, 80.2825 E
Physical Anatomy & TusksDistinctive criss-crossed tusks, imposing stature, known for peaceful coexistence with rural farmers
Fate and Cause of DeathPoached by ivory traffickers with high-powered rifle fire in November 2017. His tragic demise ignited nationwide outrage and strict anti-poaching wildlife legislation.

Significance and Cultural Legacy

Sri Lanka most recognizable wild tusker with unique crossed tusks forming an X shape. Despite suffering from blindness in one eye due to past trap gun injuries, he roamed the Galgamuwa dry zone peacefully for decades.

"Sri Lankan tuskers represent an ancient biological and cultural heritage. Only a rare percentage of Sri Lankan Asian elephant bulls develop majestic ivory tusks, making each individual a living national treasure."
Return to Tusker RegistryLocate on Sanctuary Map