Elephants and Conservation Ecology - Thailand and Laos

This 4-week immersive program offers a unique opportunity to study the conservation of Asian elephants through field-based experiences in Thailand and Laos. Students engage with elephant care in wildlife sanctuaries, elephant camps, and re-wilding centers, learning about these iconic animals' ecology, behavior, and health. The course explores conservation challenges and strategies in a real-world context, emphasizing the intersection of biology, cultural practices, and conservation efforts. Participants gain practical experience in managing human-elephant conflicts, researching elephant health, and understanding their ecological role in tropical environments. Through site visits to UNESCO World Heritage areas and involvement in local conservation projects, they will acquire the skills to assess and support elephant conservation initiatives. The course also integrates cultural perspectives on elephants, examining the societal and ethical aspects of their management in Southeast Asia.