Scientists have figured out why elephants and tigers are drawn to people

Close proximity to large human settlements can negatively affect the populations of some species.

wild animals. However, apparently, this is not true for elephants, tigers, wild boars and leopards.

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The researchers compared historical data onthe number of 14 species of large wild animals in 10 forests of Southeast Asia with modern ones. The population of some species has declined, there are fewer Sumatran rhinos and Malay bears. However, the proximity to people had a positive effect on the number of tigers, Asian elephants, wild boars and clouded leopards.

Scientists believe this may be due tostricter conservation measures and a tough fight against poaching in national parks that are located near large population centers.