Jharsuguda: Two elephants including a calf died in separate incidents near Teladihi village under Bagadihi range in Jharsuguda district late last night.
While one jumbo was killed after coming in contact with an 11-KV electric wire near the Teladihi check gate, the baby elephant, around six months old, fell into a pit and died just 20 metres away from the check gate.
The carcasses were spotted by local residents, who informed forest officials on Monday morning. Villagers paid last respects to the wild animals by offering flowers.
A team of forest officials led by Jharsuguda DFO and veterinary officials rushed to spot. Exact reason of the death of pachyderms can only be ascertained after post-mortem, the DFO said.
The incident took place when the animals wandered into village area in search of food last night, sources said.
Elephants dying after coming in contact with sagging live wires has become common incidents in the State.