'Gay elephants' spotted in Sri Lanka’s National Parks as males engage in same-sex bonding

Sri Lanka’s Wild Elephants Display Same-Sex Bonding Behaviour (Image: Canva)

Can elephants form same-sex relationships? Wildlife officers in Sri Lanka say yes, with reports of male elephants frequently engaging in homosexual bonding and mounting in national parks.

Where was this behaviour observed?

Officials noted the behaviour in Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks. They said it was seen as a natural part of elephant social life. The activity was mostly reported during months when food and water are available in plenty.

Reports suggest strong bulls often win females for mating. Weaker males are sometimes left out of competition. These elephants then engage in homosexual behaviour as a social choice. Officers explained that such interactions are not unusual in herds.

How do elephants show affection?

Elephants display closeness by intertwining trunks, grooming each other, and walking together. A recent post on X by Tamil Nadu Geography showed two male elephants bonding near Gudalur in southern India. Experts say elephant relationships, whether gay or straight, may last many years.

Two male elephants are showing affection near Gudalur in the Nilgiris dt of Tamil Nadu. 🐘. Elephants have good memory, can remember their friends & family for life. pic.twitter.com/SjJ9kFyFvr

— Tamil Nadu Geography (@TNGeography) August 18, 2025

What is the legal backdrop in Sri Lanka?

Despite elephants showing natural freedom of expression, homosexuality remains illegal in Sri Lanka. In 2023, the Supreme Court allowed decriminalisation, but the bill has not yet passed. In 2022, President Ranil Wickremesinghe said his government would not oppose the proposal brought by MP Premnath C Dolawatte. The bill, however, still awaits parliamentary approval.