Elephants and Conservation Ecology - Thailand and Laos
- Thailand
- Chiang Mai
- Laos
About Program
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 the ecology, behavior, and health of these iconic animals. 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, conducting research on elephant health, and understanding their ecological role in tropical environments. Through site visits to UNESCO World Heritage areas and involvement in local conservation projects, students will acquire the skills needed to assess and support elephant conservation initiatives.
Video and Photos
Program Highlights
- Observe elephants (and other animals) in the wild
- Learn about re-wilding efforts in Laos
- Study at two UNESCO World Heritage sites: The Thung Yai-Huai Kha Kaeng Wildlife Sanctuary and the ancient Lao city of Luang Prabang
- Hands-on experience in elephant health care at an elephant hospital, study birth and the care of baby elephants
- Conduct an independent research project on a topic of your choice