Deega Danthu 1 (also spelt Deegadanthu or Dheeghadanthu) had the longest tusks among the tuskers of Kala Wewa and was described as about 45 to 50 years old and gentle. He also used the Kahalla-Pallekele and Balalu Wewa areas, and in August 2023 reappeared at Kala Wewa after about four years out of sight. In late November 2024, after Kala Wewa overflowed, he moved toward a village and was killed by an illegal electric line. Reports said his twin, Deega Danthu 2, had recently been seen near Kala Wewa.
Sources
- Most beautiful elephant in Kalawewa National Park found dead — Daily Mirror, 28 Nov 2024
- Tusker Dheeghadanthu (1) dies after contact with unauthorized power line — Newsfirst, 28 Nov 2024
- Tusker Deegadanthu 1 reemerges from hiding after four long years — Newsfirst, 14 Aug 2023
- Lessons should be learned from the tragic death of Tusker Deeghadanthu — Daily Mirror, 2 Dec 2024