SriLanka, Oct. 21 -- The loss of tusker Kavantissa appears to have changed a familiar scene at the Gatadivula-Kasikote elephant crossing in Galgamuwa, where a herd that once followed the giant tusker across the road has been seen waiting by the roadside.

Several video clips circulating on social media show the elephants gathered near the crossing, bringing renewed attention to the challenges they face while moving through areas shared with people and vehicles.

Before his death, Kavantissa was known for leading the herd across the main road along the Anuradhapura-Colombo route. He would wait for vehicles to stop before crossing, while a local resident living near the Kasikote Elephant Tunnel helped halt traffic to allow the elephants to ...