Our study showed, 65% of mahouts often or very often use a bull-hook or a sharp nail stick to control their elephant at riding and entertainment camps. ... This is because in higher welfare venues, tourists are not in direct contact with elephants, and instead primarily get to watch elephants move freely.

How do they control elephants?

The most common tools used by mahouts are chains and the aṅkuśa (goad, also ankus or anlius) – a sharp metal hook used as guide in the training and handling of the elephant. In India, especially Kerala, mahouts use three types of device to control elephants.

How are bullhooks used on elephants?

Also known as an ankus or goad, a bullhook is a stout pole with a metal hook and a metal tip on the end. It is used in training and controlling elephants by a handler applying pressure to sensitive points on an elephant's body.