Sri Lanka began surveying its wild elephant population living in national parks as part of a conservation drive to protect the dwindling animals. The island's elephant population has dwindled to some 4,000 from a high of 12,000 recorded in 1900s, according to the Department of Wildlife Conservation. The two-day survey ends on August 13.

Ishara S. Kodikara / AFP - Getty Images

Sri Lankan wild elephants play at a wild life sanctuary in Minneriya on August 12, 2011.

Ishara S. Kodikara / AFP - Getty Images

Sri Lankan wild elephants walk through a field at a wild life sanctuary in Minneriya on August 12.

Ishara S. Kodikara / AFP - Getty Images

A lone Sri Lankan wild elephant plays in the sand at a wild life sanctuary in Minneriya on August 12.