Forest officials have urged motorists to remain vigilant while travelling in the hilly terrains in Mettupalayam and Coonoor following movement of elephants.

According to sources, a herd of elephants has come out of the forest area and strayed into the town in three places. The pachyderms, they said, are apparently attracted by the fresh shoots of bamboo and grass. Due to the recent rains, the vegetation along the road sides has been good, sources added.

While two elephants were spotted in Parliar,, one in KNR area and three in Kozhikarai village. Officials are watching the movement of the elephants.