12-year old female elephant found dead

A 12-year old female elephant, apprently in search of water, died after getting trapped in the slush and marsh of a dam near the Anthiyur forest area in the district, officials said today.

The elephant was noticed yesterday morning in the Varattupallam dam, which had almost dried up, by local villagers, who, however, did not realise it was in distress.

As the pachyderm continued to remain there for a long time, the villagers informed forest officials around noon. By the time the officials reached the spot, the elephant was found dead.

Efforts were being made to remove the carcass of elephant from the reservoir, officials said.