bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variability in ranging behaviour of elephants in northern Kenya.
Authors: Thouless Chris
Published: November 2024

Intensive study 1990-1992 and continued monitoring of 'migrant animals' over the next 5 years found elephants of Kenya's northern Laikipia and Samburu Districts utilize numerous habitats and have widely variable home ranges - from 150 sq kms to over 5000 sq kms. Elephants resident in the private ranches of Laikipia are believed to have moved south from Samburu during 1970s and 1980s in response to intensive poaching. It was anticipated a decrease in poaching would cause elephant to spend more time in the northern part of their range thus reducing pressure on vegetation and farms in the south, but monitoring showed no consistent northward shift of ranges during 1993-1997. However, monitoring of animals from differing subpopulations illustrates ranges of some individual matrilines have changed substantially during this time, possiblity due to increasing levels of human disturbance. There is much more overlap between different groupings and more variability within subpopulations than previously suspected.
Elephant status and conflict with humans on the western bank of Liwonde National Park, Malawi.
Authors: Bhima Roy
Published: November 2024

The status of elephants in the western edge of Liwonde NP, an area they have only occupied since 1972, and the relationship these animals have come to have with the agricultural land use outside the boundaries of their protected area were assessed. Aerial and ground surveys were used to estimate herd size and sex ratios, and assess movements. Sampling of crop damage and identification of the animals responsible was done as far as possible. Even though the potential for conflict was high the overall crop damage was calculated at only 10-25%. The attributing factors appear to be the availability of sufficient natural forage elsewhere and the relatively small number of adult bulls in the area. As bulls frequented the crops 5.8 times more than females, a lack of numbers lowers the potential effect from such 'crop raiders'.
Tracking African elephants with a global positioning system (GPS) radio collar.
Authors: Douglas-Hamilton Iain
Published: November 2024

Reviews December 1996 to May 1997 Global Postioning System (GPS) trials based on results from two bulls radio collared in Amboseli NP: M86 (38 years and in musth when collared) tracked for 134 days, and M169 (34 years) tracked for 168 days. The collars, containing the GPS instrument and VHF modem package on top with a battery pack at the bottom, were successful in obtaining fixes in 94.6% or 2,966 times out of 3,136 and 96.5% or 2,638 out of 2,734 attempts. Failure to log positions peaked just before dawn with a subsidiary low one hour after midday, these may be due to the animals lying down or being under shade trees. On average each elephant was located 20 times per day and downloadings conducted with a light aircraft every two weeks. Results were converted to speadsheets (MS Excel) from which maps were created using MapInfo software. Daily and hourly movements were plotted. Trials demonstrate GPS radio tracking of elephants is feasible and capable of generating high quality data 24 hours a day and under all weather conditions.
Proposal for incorporation of grid-based data into the African Elephant Database.
Authors: Thouless Chris
Published: November 2024

Suggests the inclusion of a grid based distributional system within the AED would be more objective and provide an indication of data quality that the present mapping system. Data included in grid based system could differentiately weighed be based on: the intensity of the aerial survey and the season in which it is flown, the knowledge of long term competent observers regarding the the range/habitat use; the observation of rapid surveys or transects in an area. Proposes considering grid cells size for mapping data be the equivalent to the quarter degree normal in bird atlases. The grid cell data: density estimate, signs observed, not range, no records, or no information, will be correlated and summarized in sets of tables.
Elephants, human ecology and environmental degradation in north-eastern Ghana and northern Togo
Authors: Sam Moses , Barnes Richard , Okoumassou Kotchikpa
Published: November 2024

Describes the conflict between people and elephants and the relationship to political upheavals in Togo, and notes the growth of human population, soil degradation, and changes in rainfall. A 1991 aerial survey estimated 130 elephants in the region between Fosse-aux-Lions NP and the Doung Forest area and although no censuses have been taken since the present estimate is 100-150. Elephant moved from Togo to Ghana during the 1990-92 political disturbances when local people in Togo took over protected areas. Interviewed villagers in Ghana in 1996 said crop raiding had increased over the last decade, and particularly the past 4-5 years. 37 of the 66 villages (42 in Ghana and 24 in Togo) visited reported damaged crops. The majority of people said elephants were simply destroyers of crops, but there is some belief in medicinal value of dung, and one group in the Pana area of Togo claimed to revere elephants as ancestors. Human population increase and resultant land use needs play a disturbing role in elephant range, this coupled with apparent changes in rainfall and loss of soil fertility do not auger well for conservation.
Elephants and their woodland habitats in northern Botswana
Authors: Ben-Shahar Raphael
Published: November 2024

The elephant population in northern Botswana (estimated to be some 80,000)is considered the largest remaining 'herd' in Africa. This paper looks at this population and its habitat in terms of its current status, the their food and water requirements, their keystone role in the ecology of the area, and management options. These animals maintain seasonal movements, congregating in the northern rivers and parts of the Okavango Delta during the dry season, and dispersing at the onset of the rains. Availability of surface water is a prime factor regulating the abundance of elephants, and restricting their movements particularly toward the end of the dry season. The spatial patterns of vegetation utilization are influenced by the extent of local elephant aggregations. The author notes his synopsis, based on 8 years of field work, 'will demonstate that while elephants have a significant role in the regulation of the natural processes in this ecosystem, it is unlikely that a future increase in elephant densities will induce irreversible change in habitats.' He suggests that the region can sustain a higher population than its current estimate without incurring biodiversity loss.
Projects of the Human-Elephant Conflict Taskforce (HETF) - results and recommendations
Authors: Hoare Richard
Published: November 2024

Notes the development recognition of the need for and the development of the Taskforce focused on human elephant conflict (HEC) - a 5 person group offically established by AfESG in 1997. During the first phase, yielded aN inventory of conflict sites, a bibliography of available literature, a list of priority topics for further investigation, and terms of reference for the Taskforce itself were compiled. The second phase continues to evolve around 3 activities: linking people with similar interests, acting as a catalyst in getting studies underway, and providing technical advice and expertise to range states. To date 8 studies under three categories have been completed: 4 under determination of significant factors in HEC, 3 under spatial analysis of HEC, and 1 under control of problem elephants. Elephants appear to attract a disproportionate level of complaintS - elephant raids are localised, unpredictable, and do cause more damage per raid than other pests, but are not the significant pest they are perceived to be. Human-elephant conflict in the forest ecosystem has not been as widely researched as that in the savannas, but this conflict may be a pretext for elephant poaching. Research and management recommendations are outlined.
African Elephant Specialist Group (AfESG)/ Groupe des Specialistes des Elephants Africain
Authors: Dublin Holly
Published: November 2024

Reviews aspects of the facilitation which has gone on over the past six months including: a meeting in Cameroon which focused on cross border initiative regarding the conservation of forest elephant in Cameroon, CAR, Congo and Gabon, and training in MIKE for personnel in this region with particular emphasis on measuring law enforcement effort in the forest; the Human Elephant Conflict Taskforce accomplishments thus far; and the Fourth African Range States Dialogue which provided a forum for the nations involved to come to an agreement which they presented to COP11. Ongoing work is being done on the two monitoring systems MIKE and ETIS which will be implemented across the continent.
Egyptian government seizes illegal ivory consignments
Authors: Martin Esmond
Published: November 2024

In spite of being a party to CITES Egypt has one of the largest retail ivory markets in Africa, as illustrated by the over 21000 ivory carvings observed in retail outlets in Cairo, Luxor and Aswan during the author's 1998 visit. Raw tusks generally come from Sudan, Democratic Republic of Congo and much of the retail sales of worked ivory are to tourists. According to ETIS files the Egyptian government reported no ivory seizures from 1989 to mid 1999, however between September 1999 and April 2000 there were nine seizures comprised of 162 pieces of raw and worked ivory with a total weight of 327 kilograms. The largest seizure was that of 79 raw tusks totally 173 kilograms taken from a Egyptian trader in Aswan.
African Elephant Specialist Group report/ Rapport du Groupe des Specialistes des Elephants d'Afrique
Authors: Dublin Holly
Published: November 2024

Reviews activities of the AfESG and associated programmes/projects related to elephant management/conservation, including development of the national elephant stategy for Ghana, the anticipation of additional national programmes, and the possibility of a subregional strategy for Central Africa; the development of the AfESG Website; the housing of available hard copies of the African Elephant Library (on the internet known as the African elephant Bibliography) at the Nairobi office; current status of MIKE and ETIS, and results of the Human-Elephant Conflict Taskforce.
Population estimate of elephants in Arabuko-Sokoke Forest
Authors: Muoria Paul
Published: November 2024

This 1996 study was undertaken to determine the change in the elephant population in Arabuko-Sokoke Forest since a 1991 survey had estimated 78 to 90 animals occupied the area. Dung decay rate was estimated using two methods: reciprocal of the mean survival time, which yielded an estimate of 0.34 elephants per sq km; and, two points on the exponential curve, which gave an estimate of 0.46 per sq km. These estimates respectively translated into 126 to 172 elephants in the area as a whole. Results suggest the elephant population in the forest has increased substantially. Reports of crop raiding on farms adjacent to the forest have been noted. There is a need to monitor the elephant population to safeguard the forest's biodiversity and since there have been reports of crop raiding on farms adjacent to the forest it is important to watch for higher crop-raiding intensities and the conflict situations this would cause.
Human-Elephant Taskforce products available for research collaborators
Authors: Hoare Richard
Published: November 2024

This text notes that a number of products emanating from the ongoing work of the Human-Elephant Conflict Taskforce are available with the hope that people will use them and comment on the results. The plan is to establish a standardized approach with a feedback loop so the research results are comparable between vastly differing human-elephant conflict (HEC) sites in Africa. The product list thus far includes: a HEC bibliographic list; a recommended standardized data collection and analysis protocol for HEC situations; a training package for enumerators of elephant damage; and a synthesis of recent research into aspects of human-elephant conflict in Africa as represented in a set of reports from eight studies undertaken in 1998-1999. Notes that maps of HEC sites, a decision support sytem for HEC management and GIS capability through the AED are under development.
Chairman's report: elephant and rhino surveys and some action
Authors: Western David
Published: November 2024

Reviews ongoing poaching and ivory exports noting the decline from about 100 tons in 1976 to 681 tons in 1979 has held steady since then, however the tusk size has gone down which means that younger animals are taken. Notes different export rules for carved ivory and raw ivory and suggests that this situation should be assessed. Notes the continuing problem of high export figures from Sudan and suggests that CITES rules could be more effectively utilized in this and other exporting and importing situations and could legislation on minimum tusk size.
Zimbabwe completes tenth year of elephant radiotracking
Authors: Martin Rowan
Published: November 2024

Radio-tracking has been used for a number of projects in the Sebungwe region. The paper outlines how the annual re-collaring of elephants was carried out and highlights important aspects obtained from examining the immobilised animals repeatedly over many years. The current elephant projects in the Sebungwe are briefly discussed as well as other projects in Zimbabwe where radio-tracking of elephants is being used.
Mali's elephants suffer in drought
Authors: Olivier Robert
Published: November 2024

Mali's elephant population survives in marginal habitats bordering the Sahara. The largest population is found in the Gourma region. Poaching of Gourma elephants used to be of concern, but this is not believed to be a significant threat anymore. At present the extremely limited availability of water poses a major threat and is accountable for the death of many elephants. The elephants which share their range with other domestic animals and man have to compete for the scarce water. If present conditions persist, the vulnerability of the population to extinction will increase, the paper highlights some strategies which could be taken to remedy this.
Tusk measurements provide insight into elephant population dynamics
Authors: Pilgram Tom , Western David
Published: November 2024

The paper discusses how information about individual elephants can be derived from tusks. Using data from culled elephants, mathematic models have been developed which use tusk measurement to deteremine age and sex. Given the models presented, the lip circumference and total length of the tusk, in combination, can determine sex, and lip circumference or weight can predict age. Sex and age together can be used to construct mortality patterns which give a clear idea of the elephants killed to supply any ivory consignment which has basic tusk dimensions recorded.
Status and trends of the ivory trade in Africa, 1989-1999
Authors: Stiles Daniel , Martin Esmond
Published: November 2024

"Based on the authors' 2000 report ""The ivory markets of Africa"", this article reviews data collected during surveys and interviews undertaken in 22 cities in 15 African countries 1997-1999. Over 100,000 elephant ivory items for retail sale were observed with the largest number noted in Abidjan (20,114), Harare (19,958) and Cairo (11,627). Except for Egypt, Gabon and Sudan domestic trade is legal. However, most buyers are foreign tourists (mostly French, Spanish and Italian), Chinese and Korean workers and businessmen, French military, United Nations officials and national diplomats. Except for Zimbabwe, the export of ivory commodities is illegal. There is a significant movement of illicit tusks within Africa., particularly from central to west to satisfy local carving industries. Countries with the cheapest tusks include Democratic Republic of the Congo, Central African Republic, Cameroon and Mozambique where relatively large elephant populations and little law enforcement exist. Illegal trade of tusks off the continent exists, mostly to countries in eastern Asia. Since 1988 the price for most retail ivory items has decreased due to decline in demand and devaluation of local currencies. The price of tusks has also sharply declined. The only surveyed city with increased retail sales since 1990 was Lagos, but it seems Abidjan has retails have expansed since the mid-1990's."
Management implications of new research on problem elephants
Authors: Hoare Richard
Published: November 2024

The persistance of problem elephant behaviour appears to continue, at least in some populations, even when identified culprit individuals are routinely removed from these populations over a long time. Is it possible that elephant populations, rather than having a few habitual problem animals, may have what could be termed a problem component? Neither translocation or killing of problem animals appears to work, others simply take their place. This implies that in such populations either translocation or killling of problem anaimls will have to continue indefinately. Although difficult to test this reasoning is supported by considerable circumstantial evidence and agrees with accepted principles in agricultural pest cntrol. Merely killing (removing) individuals of the pest species seldom has much impact of the problem, most pests are effectively controlled by denying them their target food or a nearby refuge.
Dual-season crop damage by elephants in eastern Zambezi Valley, Zimbabwe
Authors: Parker Guy , Osborn Ferrel
Published: November 2024

Reviews an elephant -focused crop damage reporting scheme, developed and tested for two consecutive years in Muzarabani District in Zimbabwe's eastern Zambezi Valley. The scheme, which involves reports collected by an enumerator who visits the site of every incident in his ward, assesses wet and dry season crop damage, identifies spatial and and temporal patterns, and develops a measure of serverity for each incident. Within the Muzarabani study area the majority of elephant crop raiding incidents occurred during the wet season. Dry season crop damage, considered to be unusual, was found to be relatively common. Wet season crop damage occurred primarily in farmland along the edge of a protected wildlife area, while dry season crop damage occurred along the major rivers in the District. Although fewer in number the dry season incidents were generally more severe than wet season incidents. Crop damage in the dry season may have a greater impact on rural farmers since that is when food is scarce. The system of crop damage reporting developed in this study provided objective and practical management information for the local district council and has been adopted by the AfESG Human-Elephant Conflict Taskforce.
Elephant crop damage and electric fence construction in the Maputo Elephant Reserve, Mozambique
Authors: De Boer, , Ntumi Cornelio
Published: November 2024

A 38 km electric fence is being constructed along part of the western border of the Maputo Elephant Reserve. At present the cost of the fence construction and maintenance (estimated at 41,500 USD per year) far outweighs the cost of crop damage (estimated about 8800 USD per year), but is considered that the fence will eventually not only lead to a decrease in crop damage by elephants but will contribute to better control of poaching and of access by people to the Reserve. During 1996 and 1997 crop raiding information was gleaned from data sheets completed by 12 informants from 8 different villages surrounding the Reserve and followup investigations of complaints received during meetings held in each of villages. Elephants preferred maize, melons and beans, and the raid frequency was highest during harvest seasons and the proportion of crop damage was higher on the more productive fields. In the most affected areas, 90% of the farmers reported crop damage and 26% of the crops were lost to elephants. The total damaged area was about 10% of 983 ha of cultivated fields. Most farmers felt the traditional methods of frightening elephants were not effective, and chose the option of constructing an electric fence.
Killing of black and white rhinoceroses by African elephants in Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park, South Africa
Authors: Slotow Rob , Balfour Dave , Howison Owen
Published: November 2024

Between 1991 and 2001 elephants killed 58 white and 5 black rhinos in Hluhluwe-Umfolozi. The culprits were primarily young male elephant entering musth at a younger than normal age due to the absence of older bulls. Elephant bulls (17-25 years) translocated as young animals from Kruger NP culls had no older male hierarchy, and were entering into musth as early as 18 as opposed to an average age of 28. (Poole 1987). Carcasses were often found in the vicinity of rivers, 76% being within 1 km of a river. Rhinos killed were predominately adult (86%), and slightly more males than females. This situation was similar to that in Pilanesberg NP (50 white rhinos killed 1992-1997) which was suppressed when 6 older bulls were introduced. In May 2000 10 older bulls from Kruger NP were introduced to Hluhluwe-Umfolozi. The number of rhino deaths decreased immediately, between September 2000 and October 2001 only 2 were killed (both in June 2001). Results suggest when rhino are present in an area older male elephants should be brought into a population of young introduced animals, but numbers should be on the conservative side monitored to assess vegetation/habitat utilization as well as interspecific aggression.
Unsuccessful introductions of adult elephant bulls to confined areas in South Africa
Authors: Garaï Marion , Carr Richard
Published: November 2024

This study assessed the reasons why some mature elephant bull introductions to game-fenced properties have been unsuccessful. Between 1998-2000 71 adult bulls from Kruger NP were transferred to 15 properties. Break-outs, circumstances where bulls broke out of a functional electrified perimeter fence, or a release boma and a perimeter fence and did not return, occurred in 5 properties. Observations suggest the 8 bulls involved had not developed a respect for electric fencing, but this investigation was unable to identify particular common factors that may lead to break-outs. However, several factors appear to influence break-outs including: the construction and electrification components used in the release boma; the age, social staus and number of bulls introduced; the proximity to their previous range; and the presence of established founder family groups. These are discuss and related to specific break-outs, and recommendations associated with each are reviewed. Suggests the most important aspect to introducing and establishing elephants in a new environment and specifically into small, confined areas is the training period in the release boma, and if this involves initiation to electric fencing it is at this point a lasting respect must be developed.
Elephants, crops and people in Ushasha Sector, southern Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
Authors: Keigwin Michael
Published: November 2024

Reviews the implementation and ongoing programme of the Elephants, Crops and People (ECP) project in the southern section of Queen Elizabeth NP which assesses the status of elephants, and works in cooperation with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and local farmers to find ways to mitigate elephant-human conflict interactions. The monitoring programme was based on the standardized interaction monitoring system used in Virunga NP. During the first month over 150 separate crop-raiding incidents recorded. All occurred at night, bull, family groups and large aggregations, sometimes numbering over 150 animals. Results indicate most incidents happen during the wet season when elephants come into the Park by crossing the Ishasha River, the boundary between Uganda and Democratic Republic of Congo in this area. The transmigration route is monitored by a EPC team walking the 25 km stretch of the Ishasa River and recording evidence of elephants at crossing places. Although the aggregations are large, the old animals are few, and the animals show some fear the population contains an abundance of young and subadults and appears to be increasing. Monitoring and research work continue.
Status of northern white rhinos and elephants in Garamba National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo, during the wars
Authors: Hillman Smith,
Published: November 2024

In recent years meat has been the premis behind poaching in Garamba NP. Patrol records suggest 70-80% of the poachers are Sudanese, often SPLA deserters, and the rest are Congolese. The significant increase in poaching in 1997 during the first DRC war was related to the fact that the guards were disarmed by occupying military forces and so had no control over poaching. There was no increase during the second DRC war, 1999-2000, although the Park headquarters was occupied by Ugandan-backed rebel forces, the personnel were not disarmed and there was little disruption to their anti-poaching efforts. Aerial survey counts in 1995 estimated 11,175 elephant. In May-June 1998, the estimated population was 5874, and in 2000 it was 6022. Observations suggest one half the elephants were lost during the first war, but there was no significant loss during the initial phase of the second war. Recent genetic results illustrate what observers have long suggested: Garamba elephants appear morphologially and behaviourly to be an intergrade between forest elephant (Loxodonta africana cyclotis) and savannah elephant (Loxodonta africana africana). International assistance focused on Garamba is noted.
Conflits homme-éléphant autour de la Forêt Classée du Haut Sassandra (Côte d'Ivoire)
Authors: Ouattara Soulemane
Published: November 2024

Complaints regarding crop damage in the area surrounding Haut-Sassandra FR in western Ivory Coast were cause for this 1995 study involving questionnaires and on site crop damage assessment. Located along the Tiemba, a tributary of the Sassandra River, the Reserve is the largest of several protected areas which provide elephant range and habitat to move within thoughout much of the year. Crop destruction near the Reserve boundaries occurs, for the most part, during the dry season (December through February). The main food crops destroyed were taro, banana, casava, pineapple and yam, but cocoa which is a cash crop also suffered. The damage itself was not extensive. Only about 5% of the farmers income was affected in 1995, but the destruction angers the people and has caused some killing of elephants. Research suggests that if something is not done to lessen the conflict the problem will escalate. Recommendations include: development of permanent water sources in the forest, assistance to farmers in making their fields safer from destruction and/or assistance in moving their field locations, further studies into the movement or possible migration of the elephant between the forest reserves or protected areas.
Recent translocation of elephant family units from Sweetwaters Rhino Sanctuary to Meru National Park, Kenya
Authors: Omondi Patrick , Wambwa Elizabeth , Gakuya Francis , Bitok Elphas , Ndeere David , Manyibe Thomas , Ogula Patrick , Kanyingi John
Published: November 2024

This paper focuses on the ninth, most recent, and largest elephant translocation, project undertaken in Kenya since KWS began transferring animals in 1996. 56 animals, 51 of which lived to be released, were translocated from Sweetwaters Rhino Sanctuary to Meru NP. The free ranging 'elephants were monitored for four months to identify animals to be moved'. From the total of 140 elephants individually identified 56, comprising 9 family units and 9 bulls, were identified for relocation. The paper notes the rationale for the pre-translocation monitoring, outlines the procedures followed by personnel in the helicopter and ground teams during the darting and anaesthesia regime, and the subsequent work involved in the loading, transportation and release of the animals. The animals were translocated in July 2001 during 12 capture operations conducted over a period of 22 days. Six animals were fitted with radio collars. Post-release monitoring involved both ground and aerial monitoring. To date it appears that the majority of the animals have settled close to the point of release and range within the Meru ecosystem.
High incidence of elephant twin births in Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Authors: Foley Charles
Published: November 2024

Twin births have been remarkably common among 139 individually known adult female elephants studied since 1992/93 in Tarangire NP. 14 or almost 5% of the 291 recorded births have been twins: seven sets have consisted of five sets of a male and a female, and two sets of twin females. The interbirth intervals of 3, 3, 4, and 6 years, following these twin births thus far are not very different from the 4.5 year interval noted for the nearby Amboseli NP elephants (Moss, 2001). One female produced three of the sets consisting of a male and female with the births occurring mid 1992, April 1996, and April 1999. A second female within the same family group, probably a sister, produced one set of twins and had a single male calf four years later. Mortality among twins was high with 6 or 43% of the 14 dying by the age of five. This may be due to inadequate nutrition when two calves are suckling , or perhaps it is more difficult for the cow to keep watch over them. The population of Tarangire NP has been growing rapidly since 1994 with females and infants increasing at an average rate of 10% per year. Besides perhaps being genetically predisposed this apparent surge of twinning in Tarangire may have been due in part to the reduction of poaching, and the resulting stabilization of elephant movement and aggregation patterns since 1989, and/or to the exceptional vegetation available as a result of several sequential wet seasons associated with the El Nino phenomenon. A eight year old male elephant, upon the death of their mother, adopted his three month old female sisters. All three of these three young elephants appeared healthy during the six months they were observed .
Clinical treatment of a leg problem in an adult bull elephant
Authors: Mpanduji Donald , Mdegela R. , Batamuzi E. , Mtambo M. , Bittegeko S.
Published: November 2024

Leg problems are not uncommon in free ranging elephants, but little has been recorded on the factors behind them i.e. natural or hunting injury, deformity, disease etc. This article describes the veterinary services rendered to an emaciated adult bull with a swollen foreleg which was tentatively diagnosed as evidence of chronic arthritis. The animal was given both antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs suggested for foot pathology. Ten days after treatment the animal was foraging and moving back and forth from a local waterhole area . The bull's gait certainly improved, however further analysis was not possible as the animal disappeared soon after.
Fifth meeting of the African Elephant Specialist Group
Authors: Niskanen Leo
Published: November 2024

36 of the 48 AfESG members attended the Fifth AfESG meeting held 28 January to 1 February 2002 in Shaba NR , Kenya. The meeting included papers and discussion on: conservation and management implications associated with the fact that the African elephant appears to be not one but multiple species; criteria for listing the African elephant in the IUCN Red Book; development of guidelines for the reintroduction of African elephants; issues associated with the monitoring of illegal killing (MIKE) and the elephant (ivory) trade information system trade (ETIS) issues; work being undertaken by the human-elephant conflict working group (HECWG); ongoing work associated with the updating of the elephant status report; and, development/implementation of national and sub-regional elephant management strategies. New guidelines (a manual) for dung counts will be developed, and a technological advances committee will investigate developments in GPS radio tracking.
Elephant-induced change in woody vegetation and its impact on elephant movements out of a protected area in Zimbabwe
Authors: Osborn Ferrel
Published: November 2024

This study, tested the hypothesis that vegetation structure and relative abundance of certain plants in remnant forest fragments differ from forests found within protected areas, and that this situation may be a causal factor in elephant dispersal. It monitored the vegetation structure and relative abundance of species in remnant forest fragments in communal land areas (CLs) in the vicinity of the Sengwa Wildlife Research Area (SWRA) and compared results with those from SWRA. Changes in woodlands with elephants are well documented, and although considered generalist feeders elephants may be selective and therefore eliminate preferred woody species locally (Wing and Buss 1970; Anderson 1973; Thomson 1975; Afolayan 1975; Jachmann and Bell 1979; Barnes 1983; Guy 1989). The present study assessed canopy changes from 1966-1993 aerial photography, and species known to be preferred by elephants were monitored for 3 years in transects in the CLs. Species differences can in part be attributed to high elephant densities, fluctuations in numbers in the late 1970s when culling took place, and fire. At present elephant are feeding primarily in the riverine valleys in the CLs, this provides for the least conflict with humans. In the past elephant would have dispersed as food resources became depleted, this may be what is occurring as they move into remnant forest mosaics outside protected areas. Management must consider effects of unchecked elephant population growth with reference to the removal of preferred tree species and the motivation of the animals to come in conflict with crops lands as they search for favoured indigenous species.
Les elephants Loxodonta africana dans la reserve de Biosphere de la Pendjari nord-est Republique du Benin: abondance, densite et repartition spatiale
Authors: Tehou Aristide
Published: November 2024

Reviews the status of elephants (with reference to surveys in 1987, 1990, 2000-2002) in Pendjari Biosphere Reserve in northwest Benin and compares recent figures with the density and abundance in other protected areas in the immediate area (Arly, Pama, W Park). Both aerial and ground surveys have been undertaken and the populations observed and/or estimated vary widely thus the author suggest that the ground survey counts in the central region (Pendjari NP) over the past three years be considered. However, due to migration patterns, here too the counts very widely with 433, 428 and 2607 animals being observed in 2000, 2001 and 2002 respectively. The author suggests counts and estimates should become more accurate as management capacity develops with the creation of a national centre for faunal reserves.
The trade in African and Asian ivory in South and South East Asia
Authors: Stiles Daniel , Martin Esmond
Published: November 2024

In late 2000 and early 2001 the authors collected data on the numbers of retail outlets, ivory items, workshops, craftsmen, and the prices of raw and worked ivory in eight south and south east Asia countries: Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam. This study serves as a followup to their African review published in 2000. Although all the nations studied except Laos are members of CITES and have domestic laws regarding ivory as well enforcement is weak, 'None of the governments for the countries surveyed have control over the ivory trade'. However, the ivory trade has declined since 1990, largely because the demand for ivory has generally been reduced, except for Thailand where it has probably remained about the same, and Myanmar where it has increased. Results indicate Thailand is the largest market and is fueled mainly by illegal imports of African raw ivory plus some tusks from Myanmar. The wholesale price of raw ivory was higher in 2001 than in the late 1980s and in 2001 the average tusk price in the Asian countries surveyed it was five times higher than in Africa (USD 250 versus USD 45). The authors note 'It is important to stop the illegal ivory sale to tourists and businessmen in the two regions (a earlier reported focused on Africa) in order to reduce elephant poaching in Africa and Asia, especially Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam where wild elephant numbers have declined by over 75% since 1988'. The original reports for both Africa and Asia are in file (Martin and Stiles. 2000: Martin and Stiles 2002).
Les éléphants du Parc National des Virunga au travers la guerre en République Démocratique du Congo
Authors: Sikubwabo Kiyengo, , Mubalama Leonard
Published: November 2024

Records suggest in 1959-1960 over 3000 elephant occupied the central portion of Virunga National Park during at least part of the year. By 2001 only about 400 animals might be present in this area. Large numbers of elephant were killed between 1964 and 1968, 1974 and 1984, and then again from 1996 to the time of reporting. The first and last dates are characterized by wars and insecurity, the second by high demand of ivory resulting from high prices on the international market. The authors suggest that as well as frequent war conditions, the government's relegation of conservation to a non-priority sector, insufficient operational capacity in conservation agencies, and the local population's ignorance of the status of elephants all acted against the elephants. Animals in and around protected areas such as Queen Elizabeth NP and Mgahinga Gorilla NP in Uganda and Parc National des Volcans in Rwanda can play a role repopulating the Virunga area when conditions for them to range more widely become more positive.
African Elephant Specialist Group/Group des Specialistes des elephants d'Afrique
Authors: Dublin Holly
Published: November 2024

Report reviews the ongoing collaborative work of the AfESG, accomplishments of the latter half of 2003 and challenges to be faced in the near future.
Law enforcement, illegal activity and elephant status in Mago and Omo National Parks and adjacent areas, Ethiopia
Authors: Demeke Yirmed
Published: November 2024

A July to December 2002 projectfocused on monitoring the strength of law enforcement effort and the extent of illegal activity vis a vis wildlife also attempted to collect data on status of elephant populations on Omo and Mago NP's in southwest Ethiopia. The estimated elephant population in Mago NP is 200 animals: during the study elephant were observed 12 times in this area with one of those times being an observation of 167 animals. This estimation is 33% lower than the 1997/98 estimate, and it is considered that probably 48% of the Park may be occupied by elephant. Omo NP does not seem to have any permanent elephant populations, during the study elephant were only seen 3 times and one of these sightings involved a group of 327 animals. Due to budgetary constraints patrol staff is insufficent, and when arrests are made the penal system is very lax when dealing wildlife offenders. The authors full report is also in file. (Demeke, 2003)
The status of elephants in Kasungu National Park, Malawi, in 2003
Authors: Bhima Roy , Howard James , Nyanyale Samuel
Published: November 2024

A dung count was used to assess the density of elephant in two separate areas (north, and central/southern) of the Kasungu NP, Malawi and attempted to determine the extent of elephant poaching and the steps needed to ensure protection of the remaining population. Dung survey results suggest a population of 120-177 elephant occupies the southeastern portion of the Park. No elephant or recent signs of their presence were noted in the northern sector. This illustrates a significant population loss over the last two decades: 1975-1978 over 2000 elephant in Kasungu, 1992 approximately 900, 1996 about 321, and presently less than 200. (Jachmann and Bell 1978: Mkanda 1992, Bhima 1996). Poaching is the prime cause of this loss. Reviews present guard numbers and workload as well as backgound of law enforcement, and concludes that population loss will continue unless law enforcement activities are sufficiently increased to control poaching.
Forest elephant density and distribution in the southern part of National Park Campo-Ma'an, Cameroon
Authors: Bekhuis Patricia , Prins Herbert
Published: November 2024

A dung count based 8 month survey during 2000-2001, undertaken in the southern part of Campo Ma'an NP in southwest Cameroon, suggests this area supports a high density of forest elephant. The elephant density was calculated to be 0.8 per sq km which is higher than known population densities in the region. 'No seasonsl differences in density were detected, nor were densities site dependent.' The results suggest the elephant population in this vicinity may losing range, and may literally be beginning to become compressed or trapped within the Park
Seasonal influence of rainfall and crops on home range expansion by bull elephants
Authors: Osborn Ferrel
Published: November 2024

'Knowledge of distribution and movement patterns in relation to their environment is essential if elephants are to be effectively managed because crop raiding is spatial and temporal in nature.' This study attempted to obtain estimates of the home ranges of elephants in Sengwa Wildlife Research Area, to establish seasonal crossing patterns into surrounding communal agricultural lands, and to examine the the concept of wet season range expansion. 7 adult and 3 subadult bulls were radio tracked during a two year period. 'Range sizes and crossing patterns out of the protected area were compared by season.' Results suggest that the concept of range expansion at the end of the wet season is correlated with the movement of elephants into agricultural lands. Knowing how and when crop raiding elephants move into subsistence agricultural areas that surround many of the protected areas is considered essential to identifying the reason why elephants and people come into conflict.
Determinisme des migrations des elephants de la Foret classee du Haut-Sassandra, Cote d'Ivoire
Authors: Ouattara Soulemane
Published: November 2024

Discusses results stemming from October 1994-October 1996 research focused on determining the factors affecting elephant migration in the Haut-Sassandra FR in the mid western region of Ivory Coast. This region has a long wet season extending from March through to October with the heaviest rains occuring near the beginning and the end of the period, namely in April and September. The short dry season extends from November through February. Density was ascertained from observation along ground transects. Studies were done in the different areas frequented by elephants, and on the seasonal availability of food and water resources. Elephant were present in both the north and south sector of the area in the wet season, but were absent in the southern region during the dry season. They frequented the northern portion of the forest reserve year round, but were more numerous in the dry season because of the abundance of favoured fruit in this region during this time. Migration was strongly related to the presence of fruit trees left standing after lumbering or as a component of the agricultural land use practises, and the availability of small water reserves within the forest. Results suggest that elephants avoided areas with high human activity, particularly areas being logged or recently logged, or where hunting is being undertaken. (Ouattara. 2002)
Physiological and haematological fundings in immobilized free-ranging African elephants
Authors: Gakuya Francis , Wambwa Elizabeth , Ndeereh David , Manyibe Thomas
Published: November 2024

Reviews results found during the monitoring of physiology and haematology attributes of 56 elephant (26 adults, 14 subadults and 16 juveniles) captured in Ol Pejeta Ranch in Laikipia and transferred about 250 kms to Meru NP in July 2002. 9 bulls and 7 family groups were involved, and 51 of the 56 animals survived the transfer. The elephant were anaesthesized with a mixture of etorphine HCI (M99) and hyaluronidase. Drug monitoring records were assessed according to three age groups adults, subadults, and juveniles. Darting of the adults and subadults was done from a helicopter while the calves were darted from ground level. 'Results of this study show that most physiologic parameters are different in the 3 age groups of elephants. Respiratory rate and pulse rate was significantly different between adults and juvenile and between juveniles and subadults with the juveniles having the highest and the adults the lowest as is also the case in body temperature. 'This is attributed to the high metabolic rate in young animals'. Mean corpuscular value and haemoglobin were highest in adults and lowest in juveniles while white blood cells count was significantly higher in juveniles than in adults. 'The range for haematological parameters compared well with those reported by other authors except for the white blood cell counts', but actual data is difficult to compare because other authors rarely recorded the age groups separately.
Reconnaissance survey of the human-elephant conflict situation around Dadieso area in western Ghana
Authors: Sam Moses , Ayesu Samuel , Kumordzi Bright , Wilson Sandra
Published: November 2024

Elephant no longer frequent the Dadieso area in western Ghana in the numbers or range area they did up to about 1957. No evidence of their presence was noted in Dadieso or Disue River FR's, however until recently they were observed in the region to the south of the Disue River FR. Questionnaire completed during interviews in 14 villages in the vicinity of the two forest reserves indicated that elephants which were present in area preferred crops of plantain, cassava, cocoa, oil palm, cocoyam and yam. No crop raiding occurred since 2000, prior to that it was not as extensive as the conflict around Kakum NP or the Red Volta Valley region. The particualar project was undertaken as part of a wildlife/forest student training course. (Ayesu. 2003)
Training as a critical component of elephant research and management in Ghana
Authors: Ayesu Samuel , Tetteh-Kumah Frank , Gyesi Halima , Baring-Darko Rebecca
Published: November 2024

Notes the increasing need for trained people, beyond conservation personnel themselves, to conduct elephant survey and monitoring programmes and then outlines a training programme in line with these needs undertaken by the Eden Conservation Society in Ghana under the initiative of the AfESG Small Grants Programme. The Society organized one month long course for 12 wildlife and forestry students from Kwame Nkrumah Universite: 2 weeks of theory given in Ankasa Conservation Area followed by 2 weeks of field work focused on a survey of elephant in the Dadieso and Disne River Forest Reserves. A table 'Topics covered in the Training Course for Wildlife Managers' outlines the topics covered, the skills taught and developed, and the emphasis given to aspects of the training topics. 'The course was designed to provide a continental overview of the status of elephants, problems of elephant management and human-elephant conflict, the biology of elephant populations and individuals, and census methods.' During the fieldwork phase 'the standard transect-line method (Buckland et al. 1993) was used to survey elephants and other animals on 45 1-km transects. Questionnnaries were administered in 14 randonly selected villages within 7 kms of the reserves'. The authors note that it will take some time to fully evaluate the results of the training, but they list several benefits already evident over the five months subsequent to the course including: the participants increased capability to plan/develop, execute, and report on projects undertaken since the training; their increased understanding of analytical skills; and, the confidence to work as a fully participating member of a research team on other programmes. (Ayesu. 2003)