Sri Lanka, Oct. 16 -- Kavantissa, an iconic tusker regarded as one of the largest and tallest elephants in Sri Lanka, died at 6.18 p.m. today (16) while receiving treatment for health complications, a wildlife official said.

The ailing elephant was found collapsed in the Siyambalangamuwa area this morning, according to wildlife officials.

Veterinary treatment had been provided to Kavantissa since September 24 for an injury to its front right leg, reportedly caused by a gunshot.

Although the wound had shown signs of healing, the tusker had developed further health complications in recent days, including a refusal to eat, reports said.

Kavantissa roamed the Galgamuwa region and was widely admired for its imposing stature. It was consid...