bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immobilization and evaluation of some clinical parameters for free-ranging elephants (Loxodonta africana) in southern Tanzania
Authors: Mpanduji Donald , Hildebrandt Thomas , Fyamagwa Robert , Wiik Harald , Siege Ludwig , Baldus Rolf , Bittegeko Salvatory , Hermes Robert , Hahn Rudolf , Hofer Heribert , Göritz Frank
Published: November 2024

Physiology and blood chemistry of a dozen adult elephant during a radio collaring operation intended to track seasonal movement and home ranges in the Selous-Naissa wlildlife corridor in southern Tanzania. 8 of the animals were anaesthesized with M99 and 4 were given M99 and Stresmil (one cow was given reversal drugs without being radiocollared and one bull died, 10 animals were successfully radio collared). Physiology and blood chemistry parameters are discuss and outlined in tables comparing them with parameters found in the literature and/or recorded by other researchers. The authors discuss the need to plan the darting progremme carefully, and to monitor the anaesthesized animals with animal health and welfare in mind.
Poaching upsurge in Garamba National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Hillman Smith, , Smith Fraser , Tshikaya Paulin , Ndey Jerome , Watkin John
Published: November 2024

'Since 1991 the threat to large mammals, generated largely by the side effects of the war in adjacent Sudan, has been gradually increasing and has moved down through the park towards the southern sector where the elephants and rhinos are found.' This article reviews the populations loss of buffalo, rhino and elephant in Garamba NP and adjacent reserves of Azande, Gangala na Bodio and Mondo Missa in northwestern DRC in three phases: 1991-1997, 1997-2003 and late June 2003 to the present (journal published in January 2004). In 1991 when some 80000 Sudanese refugees settled in the vicinity of Garamba meat from bufflalo became their major protein source. In 1993 the majority of the poaching still occurred in the north and central regions of the Park , but by 1997 during DRC's own civil war poaching had moved into the southern sector. The civil war precipitated poaching and certainly not only for meat. In 1997 alone it is considered that the elephant population was halved (11175 +/-3670 to 5874+/-1339). By 1999 the southern sector was the focus for poaching. 'Since June 2003 poaching in Garamba NP has changed from meat to ivory. The level of poaching of elephants has exploded '. In August an aerial survey noted 34 fresh elephant carcasses while a November survey observed 27 fresh and recent carcasses plus 7 additional old ones. Most of the poachers are well armed Sudanese military and military deserters. Guards trained and supported through the internationally funded Garamba National Park Project and its core expatriate staff focus on protecting the few remaining rhino and the elephant population in the southern sector.
African Elephant Specialist Group report/Rapport du Groupe des Specialistes des Éléphants d'Afrique
Authors: Dublin Holly
Published: November 2024

Reviews recent AfESG activities and programme implementation including: publication (both hardcover and online) of the 2002 edition of the African Elephant Status Report (formerly the African Elephant Database); dissemination of the 'Guidelines for the in situ translocation of the African elephant for conservation purposes'; organization of the 6th meeting of the AfESG held in Namibia in December 2003; continuing development of national and subregional elephant conservation strategies; and, implementation of research and management projects in coordination with non-governmental agencies and national governments. Other points of interest include the 'vulnerable' listing of the African elephant is the 2004 Red List, maintenance and further development of the website (htt://iucn.org/afesg), and the compilation of reference materials. A troubling point of concern is the lack of core funding support beyond 2004.
Monitoring law enforcement and illegal activities in the northern sector of the Parc National des Virunga, Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Mubalama Leonard , Mushenzi Norbert
Published: November 2024

This paper focuses on a year long (July 2002-July 2003) law-enforcement monitoring project in the northern sector of Parc National des Virunga (PNVi), which 'made a preliminary study of the background affecting elephant poaching and other illegal activities by using a state-of-the-art geographic information system (GIS)'. With recent data suggesting 'that is it not deforestation but defaunation that poses the greatest immediate threat to animal conservation' this study assessed the utility of both the conventional deterrence involving routine foot patrols within the study area associated with boundary checks and visits to neighbouring villages, as well as investigation operations following up information supplied through a network of informants outside the area. It appears that when effectively implemented these two operations are equally important in deterring wildlife offenders. The authors note 'that increased effectiveness in anti-poaching can be achieved only by appropriate law enforcement as a deterrent by providing information that site managers can use to determine how to allocate resources optimally to improve protection and management of elephants and other wildlife'. Although this study was carried out in an area that continues to suffer the consequences of a lengthy civil war this study suggests conservation measures based on deterrence can be implemented under precarious political conditions. Mubalama presented this article as the paper 'Monitoring of law enforcement and illegal activity in the northern sector of the Parc National des Virunga under siege with a focus on elephant (Loxodonta africana) poaching' during the 6th AFESG Meeting at Mokuti Lodge, Namibia, Dec 4-8, 2003.
Elephant numbers, group structure and movements on privately owned land adjacent to Tsavo East National Park, Kenya
Authors: McKnight Barbara
Published: November 2024

This July 1999-Nov 2001 study, which focused on the elephants in the Rukinga Wildlife Sanctuary and Taita Ranch lying between West Tsavo and the southwest boundary of Tsavo East in the southern sector of the Tsavo ecosystem, attempted to ascertain the number of elephants, and their group sizes and structure at the population level, and to identify individuals to facilitate further research on demography and ranging behaviour at the individual level. A photographic identification file for 165 animals was compiled. The number of elephants sighted per month ranged from 65 to 292 and almost half the sightings were groups of bulls or lone bulls. Resightings were relatively low, only 37.5% of the bulls and 60.5 % of the cows were seen in the area more than once which suggests that this area is a portion of a much larger range. 14 (6 lone bulls and 2 family groups of the elephant sighted were known to have moved between the National Park and private land and to do so crossed a major highway and railway, which illustrates that the long time routes continue to be tranversed. Elephants are getting caught up in snares intended for smaller 9 animals (used for bushmeat) and may be harassed or killed due largely to conflict with herdsmen over access to water: Nine known adults had tips or sections of the trunk missing, two had deep slash wounds across the trunk, one had a snare embedded around the trunk, two had snares embedded around the leg and two died from poisoned arrow.' This particular study augments ongoing research in the Tsavo ecosystem. (McKnight, 1995, 1996, 2000)
Elephant reintroductions to small fenced reserves in South Africa
Authors: Garaï Marion , Slotow Rob , Carr Richard , Reilly Brian
Published: November 2024

This article focuses 'on the question of whether the translocation of elephants can be termed successful according to the short-term indicators of natural reproduction, mortality rate and population growth'. It is based on data collected by the EMOA over the past decade, and particularly on information obtained by the 2001 questionnnaire which served as the base for a database tracking these aspects. Between 1979 and 2001 over 800 elephant were reintroduced, largely from Kruger NP, to 46 government and 12 private reserves in South Africa. Most of these areas lie within four regions: Zululand in KwaZulu Natal; Waterberg and Hoedspruit in Limpopo, and in the Eastern Cape. The number of animals introduced at any one time varied widely, from 2 to 227. Over half (56%) adult females that were transferred gave birth within 2 years and so were pregnant at the time of capture. 38 of the reserves (68%) have shown an increase greater than 10% of the initial populations, 16 have shown no change, however most of these have held the reintroduced animals for less than 5 years, and two, which were given only young orphaned animals have shown a loss. When young orphaned animals, which because of technology available in the earlier years were the initial founder populations, were transferred on their own, morality was relatively high (185of 225 animals) but it has decreased substantially since complete family groups have been moved. The authors note this analysis confirms the short-term success of establishing elephant in relatively small fenced reserve. However, the health and welfare of such herds in the long terms is yet to be determined and there have been a number of behavioural problems particualry those linked to disrupted social structure which need to be studied further and taken into account in management. Garai's paper 'History and populations of the re-introduced elephants in samll fenced reserves in South Africa' given at the 6th AfESG meeting in Mokuti Lodge, Namibia, December 4-8, 2003 was based on this article and one in preparation by Slotow and others, focused on population ecology of elephant in small fenced reserves.
Chemical composition of mineral licks used by elephants in Aberdares National Park, Kenya
Authors: Mwangi Peter , Milewski Antoni , Wahungu Geoffrey
Published: November 2024

This July-August 2002 study assessed the physical and chemical properties of 14 natural mineral licks and their use by African elephants in Aberdare NP in Central Kenya and recorded the elephant use of 2 artificial salt licks, in the same Park, for 15 days. The mineral licks were postioned by GPS and classified according to extend of present use: light, moderate, heavy and abandoned. A total of 56 samples were taken from the mineral licks and 52 control samples were taken from locations about 200m away each of the licks. The mineral licks or 'eaten earths differed from the uneaten earths primarily in their significantly higher sodium and iodine concentrations'. The mineral lick samples contained a higher clay content than did the control samples. 'This work therefore isolated sodium iodine and clay content as the possible stimuli for geophagy among the elephants' in this area. The authors note: 'Sodium preference could be attributed to palatability, clay has a possible medicinal function and also retards leaching of sodium and iodine. It appears elephant seek inorganic sources to supplement iodine well as sodium and it would be important to assess licks for both elements in areas where range is becoming more restricted as the animals may not be able to access mineralized soils areas they used to. The age and sex of the animals using two artifical salt licks in the vicinity of tourist hotels were recorded over a 15 day period.
African Elephant Specialist Group report / Rapport du Groupe des Specialiste des Éléphants d'Afrique
Authors: Dublin Holly
Published: November 2024

This text is a review of the ongoing work of the Secretariat and AfESG as a whole: reviews data collection towards AESR 2006; notes the ongoing development of subregional and national conservation and management stategies in Central, Southern, West and East Africa; discusses human-elephant conflict training, management and cooperative ventures with IUCN; the updating of AfESG's website, and the initiation of the Local Overpopulations Task Force.
Systematic recording of human-elephant conflict: a case study in south-eastern Tanzania
Authors: Malima Cyprian , Hoare Richard , Blanc J.
Published: November 2024

A standardized data collection system devised to record and assess human-elephant conflict was used in subsistence agricultural areas to the east of Selous GR in Tanzania. 'Nine enumerators were recruited, trained and supervised to collect primary data on elephant damage incidents in 38 rural villages widely spaced throughout an area of 30000sq km. Reviews results from the first year (July 2003-June 2004) of a proposed three year study. 1239 incidents occurred of which 973 were assessed as crop raiding. Sixteen categories of food crops were damaged, representing loss to both wet and dry season produce. Mixed herds were the most common raiders in both wet and dry seasons (56% and 63% respectively), lone bulls were second (22%) in the wet season, with bull groups (22%) playing this role in the dry season. Elephants killed 2 people, and people killed 25 elephants. Initial study year results already serve to illustrate the utility and cost-effectiveness of simple, inexpensive recording schemes, operated principally by people within affected communities and producing rapid results relevant to local wildlife management and community-based observation. The authors note results from the initial year of the project 'have successfully tested the principle and logistics of collecting primary data through an independent third party', in this case the village level enumerators, 'rather than from affected people's verbal accounts or from employees of a national wildlife authority'. In both these latter cases data are often inconsistent or biased. (Hoare, 2001) The authors conclude that the study probably operated over the largest area ever covered by a wildlife conflict reporting scheme of its kind. In much of the area villages are widely spaced and the proportion of the area actually occupied and cultivated is very small (1%) making the probability of human-elephant conflict slight.
Less room for a small population of elephants in severely encroached Mikeno massif, southern Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Mubalama Leonard , Mbula Deo
Published: November 2024

Although poaching seems to be the most urgent threat in Virunga NP, any elephant conservation strategy needs to address expanding human activity and incursions into the park's Mikeno forest zone. Antipoaching operations seized a substantial number of weapons, dismantled several hundred snares, and led to the arrest of a few people. But the biodiversity of the Mikeno forest zone, which probably contains about 75 elephant (in an area which could sustain 120. Barnes. 1990), is at risk if hunting, deforestation, and uncontrolled livestock grazing and cultivation are not curbed in the immediate future. Increasing human population land use needs in this area are compounded by the fact that the park lies in a border region recently affected by civil wars. The authors recommend that DR Congo and Rwanda ratify the Lusaka Agreement Task Force, an action that would provide for assistance and coordination in law enforcement . They suggest the forest corridor at Mwaro, an 800 metre corridor used by both elephants and buffalo, which allows animals to move from the Mikeno section to other sections of the park is vital in the maintenance of genetic diversity.
African Elephant Specialist Group report/Rapport du Groupe des Specialiste des Éléphants d'Afrique
Authors: Dublin Holly
Published: November 2024

Reviews ongoing AfESG programme and accomplishments during mid to late 2005. Compilation for the 2006 issue of the The African Elephant Status Report (formerly AED) is underway. The Central African Elephant Conservation Strategy which was developed during the 29 August-2 Sept workshop at Limbe, Cameroon is now in print. A draft of the subregional strategy for southern African elephants which was worked on during a May 2005 meeting in South Africa is now circulating. Transfrontier populations continue to dominate work in West Africa. The Kenyan Wildlife Service is working on a long term management strategy. It seems feasible to expect some pilot projects focused on human elephant conflict will soon be underway. The Local Overpopulation Task Force has developed a draft document on this subject for circulation.
Risk of crop raiding by elephants around the Kakum Conservation Area, Ghana
Authors: Barnes Richard , Hema Emmanuel , Nandjui Awo , Manford Mildred , Dubiure Umaru-Farouk , Danquah Emmanuel , Boafo Yaw
Published: November 2024

This Augsut 2000-September 2002 study monitored crop damage by elephants in the vicinity of Kakum CA. The Conservation Area, comprised of about 370 sq kms formerly known as Kakum NP and Attandanso FR, has a population of about 220 elephant. The forest in the protected area is a fragment of the lowland forest the once occupied much of southwestern Ghana. (Adjewodah, et al. 2005: Barnes, et al. 2003) The CA is almost completely surrounded by agricultural land under both subsistance and commerical cropping. 10 study sites of one sq each were randomly chosen around the periphery of the CA. A local villager was trained and hired to monitor and record elephant caused damage to crops. In 2001 a total of 213 fields were monitored. 55 of these fields suffered damage and a 120 incidents were recorded. It was apparent that distance from the CA boundary, size of field, type and number of crops in the field of crop, and isolation of the field all played a role is whether of not the field was raided. Maize and cassava were the most commonly raided crops and plantains were third. Smaller and more isolated fields close to the park were most often raided, however elephant also seemed to be attacted and larger farms with many crops in the fields. Recommendations suggest 'a farmer could drastically reduce risk by moving away from the park boundary, joining other farmers in a cluster, limiting farm size and growing fewer kinds of crops. This study was part of the training programme for officer interested elephant biology and management.
Can bees deter elephants from raiding crops? An experiment in the communal lands of Zimbabwe
Authors: Karidozo Malvern , Osborn Ferrel
Published: November 2024

This project in the Lower Guruve District in northern Zimbabwe sought to explore the hypothesis put forth by Vollrath nd Douglas-Hamilton. In Samburu/Laikipia area of Kenya they 'observed that elephants did not feed on trees with hives and trees prone to elephant damage experienced no furhter damage'. (Vollrath and Douglas-Hamilton. 2002) The earlier researchers suggested that besides the protection factor keeping bees could provide economic returns by harvesting the honey. The Lower Guruve District is under going rapid agricultural expansion but still contains a high and mobile elephant population. To test the effectiveness of bees in deterring elephants, hives were placed near entrances to maize, cotton and sorghum fields, along elephant paths to these fields and near paths to waterpoints in gardens. selected maizeand sorghum plots were visited 5 times a week for 6 months, and wherever field visits were made the observer recorded any activity between any elephant present and the bees from the nearby hives. 58 incidents of crop damage were recorded. 79% of the damage was done by bulls, 14% by cows and 7% by mixed herds. 59% of the damage was done to crops in their growing stage while 41% was done to crops in their mature stage. Maize was the most often damaged crop. This study found no significant difference between fields damaged with bees/hives and without bees/hives. However, it was noted that elephants avoided entrances to fields in plots near bee hives. Elephants tended not to use paths to waterpoints when hives had been placed but made new paths to these waterpoints. When hives were placed along paths in a forested area heavily used by elephants the elephants moved away from this area. Although this study did not find bees were deterred from raiding crops the authors tend to support the hypothesis of the earlier study.
Elephant-poaching weapons and new experiences from the Banyang-Mbo Wildlife Sanctuary, Cameroon
Authors: Nchanji Anthony
Published: November 2024

Article reviews a decade long Wildlife Conservation Society's antipoaching campaign in Banyang-Mbo Wildlife Sanctuary in southwestern Cameroon. A map showing where the elephant carcasses werer found and the villages wherein poaching equipment was found links this activity to ethnic groups living in different areas in the vicinity. 183 elephants were known to have been illegally killed or poached between January 1993 and January 2004. The present population is estimated to be 214 +/-159. The animals were mostly poached for their ivory, the meat was generally consumed fairly quickly. However, lately the carcasses are often simply left to rot. Firearms using locally made bullets are often used. Both rifles and shotguns have been confiscated by the antipoaching programme. Snares made of cable wire and pin-board traps which pierce the elephants' footpads are common. Notes that crop raiding is present and agriculturalists are antagonistic towards elephatns. Antipoaching campaigns should assess this aspect and make conflict mitigation part of any programme.
The African and Asian ivory markets in Europe: a survey of five countries
Authors: Stiles Daniel , Martin Esmond
Published: November 2024

This artilce reviews matiersl presented in report that covered the ivory markets in the five European countires wihc appear to be the most active in ivory importation, craft presentations and sales. (Stiles and Martin 2000, 2002, 2003). Sources and costs of ivory, crafts people; shops and the retail market and prices in the UK, France, Spain, Italy and Germany are assessed. This study suggets the UK and German markets are relatively significant but consider that thos of France, Italy and Spain are small. Germany and France have legal active ivory craftsmen and ivory stockpiles for such use. Most of the items seen were ivory items imported prior to 1989, or were legal antique items imported since then. Some East Asian and African worked items from later ivory were seen, but this illegal material is considered to be very minor. The author suggest the demand for tusks, legal otr illegal, is small and the five surveyed countries 'seem to be complying well with CITES'.
Vasectomy of older bulls to manage elephant overpopulation in Africa: a proposal
Authors: Bokhout Ben , Nabuurs Marius , De Jong,
Published: November 2024

This article is a proposal based on literature, it provides a concept that still requires on the ground investigation and implementation. When it was initially presented at the EMOA symposium in 2004 vascetomy had not yet performed on a bull elephant, but since tht time the opertion has been carried out several times in South Africa. The article reviews the advantages of male sterilization over that of females and looks at the 'general, technical, sex-related and financial aspects of the vascetomy of elephant bulls'. It appears that after dominant bulls are selected, treatment of less that 2% of the elephants would stabilize a population in parks with a natural population growth rate. Analysis suggests that for parks with 100 to 300 elephants, occasional vasectomy of a dominant bull would provide an effective elepahnt family planning tool.
Post-war effects on the rhinos and elephants of Garamba National Park
Authors: Hillman Smith, , Ndey Jerome
Published: November 2024

During the first 8 years after the Garamba NP project began the elephants in that vicinity increased from an estimated population of 3300 in 1984 to an estimated population of 11175 in 1995. The war is souther Sudan increasingly affected the area from 1991 onwards as both refugees and military groups came into the area. By 1998 the estimated elephant population 5874. Systematic aerial counts taken in April prior to the beginning of the wet season noted that by 2004 there were no elephant north of the Garamba River. The Apil 2004 elephant population in the southern part of the park was estimated to be 6354. A rough count in November 2004 suggested abut 2000 elephant remained in the park area. A total aerial count in August 2005 counted 1202 elephant. Counts are planned for early 2006 and it is hoped that intertnational interest and assistance in a post war situation may serve to conserve and maintain an elephatn as well as a northern white rhino population.
Law enforcement in Malawi conservation: a monitoring system
Authors: Bell R.
Published: November 2024

Outlines a monitoring system based on the systematic use of patrol reports produced by field staff. The system is intended to quantify patrolling effort, quantify the illegal activity encountered by patrols according to a set of standardized categories, and derive indices of the amount of illegal activity recorded per unit of patrolling effort. Patrol staff is trained to record data in a standard format. In the case of elephant there are 17 record points including the date of death, method of discovery, cause of death, presence or absence of tusks, age, etc. Data can be used to monitor preformance of patrol activity, to monitor changes in illegal activities, and to assess the impact of illegal activity on the mortality of key species and trade in their products. The value of this procedure as a management tool was evident in the case of elephant poaching in Kasungu NP. The few years prior to 1981 showed an upsurge in elephant poaching, but no enforcement was forthcoming, in 1982 the Park came under new and active leadership which included the monitoring system, a positive enforcement response was immediate.
Why do elephants destroy woodland?
Authors: Jachmann Hugo , Bell R.
Published: November 2024

The increase in the number of elephants in some of the conservation areas was followed by a decline in woodland density due to a combination of the destruction by elephants and burning by man. The article addresses the issue of whether modification of woodland by elephants is a natural phenomenon that is part of a cyclical relationship existing between elephants and woodland. A major factor contributing to habitat degradation by elephants could be a maladapted feeding strategy associated with the fact that the elephants now occupying much of the drier areas are descendants from animals of the Central African forest belt. The article discusses the various ways elephants utilize trees or parts of trees.
Elephant hunting patterns: the evidence of tusks in the ivory trade
Authors: Pilgram Tom , Western David
Published: November 2024

Reviews computer-simulated study intended to reflect the mortality of elephants due to hunting for ivory as compared with natural mortality, random culling and random hunting from mature and young populations.
Recensement d'éléphants dans la Réserve Communautaire du Lac Télé, République du Congo
Authors: Iyenguet Fortuné , Malanda Guy-Aimé , Madzoke Bola , Rainey Hugo , Schloeder Catherine , Jacobs Michael
Published: November 2024

"We surveyed elephants in the 4400-km2 Lac Télé Community Reserve in the Republic of Congo to provide estimates of population status and trends. Habitat in the reserve consists of seasonally flooded and swamp forest with patches of terra firma forest. Using line transects and distance sampling techniques we estimated elephant densities from dung counts in both low- and high-water seasons (flooding seasons). We estimated that the reserve holds low densities of elephants in seasonally flooded and swamp forest. Elephants are present in the terra firma forest in the high-water season only. Our estimate in 2004 of 316 (95% CI 98, 1045) elephants in the reserve is similar to that found in 2002. However, there was a large error in calculating estimates because of the low number of dung piles. Further surveys may help to reduce this error and provide information on elephant distribution between habitats."
Dry-season status, trend and distribution of Konkombouri elephants and implications for their management, Burkina Faso
Authors: Bouché Philippe
Published: November 2024

Konkombouri Hunting Zone is part of the transfrontier W–Arly–Pendjari ecosystem. Monthly dry-season records from wildlife monitoring show that the free-ranging elephant population increased from month to month with the progression of the dry season and the reduction of water points that still contained water. However, with the arrival of the first important rains, elephant density continued to increase because water and new shoots were available everywhere. In 2005 and 2006 elephant density in the Konkombouri Hunting Zone reached the highest mean dry-season elephant density recorded in West Africa these last decades. This situation increases the impact on habitat close to water points and heightens human and elephant conflicts.
La Zone de Chasse de Konkombouri fait partie de lʼécosystème transfrontalier W–Arly–Pendjari. Le suivi mensuel de la faune en saison sèche montre que la taille des populations vivant dans la Zone de Chasse de Konkombouri augmente de mois en mois tout au long de la saison sèche tandis que le nombre de mare contenant de lʼeau diminue. Avec lʼarrivée des premières pluies les densités dʼéléphants continuent à augmenter car lʼeau et les nouvelles repousses deviennent disponible partout. En 2005 et 2006 les densités dʼéléphants ont atteint la densité moyenne globale pour toute la saison sèche la plus élevée qui ait été enregistrée en Afrique de lʼOuest ces dernières décennies. Cette situation a pour conséquence, dʼaugmenter du même coup lʼimpact de cette espèce sur les habitats à proximité des points dʼeau, les aménagements hydrauliques et les conflits homme–éléphant.
Phenology of forest trees favoured by elephants in the Kakum Conservation Area, Ghana
Authors: Danquah Emmanuel , Oppong Samuel
Published: November 2024

The reproductive and foliage status of forest trees that are important elephant fruit sources were monitored from July 2001 to June 2002 at the Kakum Conservation Area, Ghana. Phenological events were variable among and within species. Generally, drought conditions triggered leaf shedding while rains induced leaf flushing. Also, rainfall in the wet season was related to the amount of fruits available for elephants in the dry season. However, the best climatic predictor of fruiting was minimum temperature.
Le statut de la reproduction et du feuillage des arbres de forêt qui sont dʼimportantes sources de fruits pour les éléphants a été suivi de juillet 2001 à juin 2002 dans lʼAire de Conservation de Kakum, au Ghana. Les changements phénologiques étaient variables au sein des espèces et entre les espèces. En général, la sécheresse déclanchait la chute des feuilles, et la pluie entraînait lʼapparition de nouvelles feuilles. On a aussi trouvé que la quantité de pluie tombée en saison des pluies était liée à lʼabondance des fruits disponibles pour les éléphants en saison sèche. Cependant, le meilleur indice climatique de la production des fruits est la température minimale.
Northern Ghana elephant survey
Authors: Bouché Philippe
Published: November 2024

Northern Ghana shelters an important protected areas network. However, the current elephant range is restricted to a few protected areas. An aerial total count was carried out in Mole National Park and partially in Gbele Resource Reserve. The eastern and western corridors were surveyed by direct and indirect distance sampling counts. A minimum of 401 elephants were observed in Mole National Park while 15 elephants (coefficient of variation: 87%) were estimated by dung count in the extreme north of the western corridor. No elephant sign was observed in the other areas surveyed. Human activities were widely spread in all areas except Mole National Park, where permanent human activities, fields and villages were outside the boundaries. Because of high human impact in the corridors, elephant migration is now essentially non-existent in both corridors. The recent records of elephant in Gbele Resource Reserve plead for a third corridor between Mole National Park and Bontioli in Burkina Faso through Gbele Resource Reserve.
Additional key words: northern Ghana corridors, elephant trends, Mole National Park, human impact
Le Nord Ghana abrite un réseau important dʼaires protégées. Cependant lʼaire de distribution des éléphants est actuellement réduite à quelques aires protégées. Un comptage aérien total a été mené au Parc National de Mole et partiellement sur la Réserve de Gbele. Les corridors Est et Ouest ont été recensés par comptage pédestre direct et indirect en utilisant la méthode du transect en ligne. Un minimum de 401 éléphants ont été observés dans le Parc National de Mole alors que 15 éléphants (coefficient de variation: 87 %) ont été estimés par le comptage de crotte dans lʼextrême nord du Corridor Ouest. Aucun signe de présence dʼéléphant nʼa été enregistré dans les autres aires protégées couvertes par cet inventaire. Les activités humaines étaient largement répandues sur toute la zone dʼétude à lʼexception du Parc National de Mole pour lequel les activités humaines permanentes, champs et villages, sont contenues hors des limites du parc. Lʼimpact humain élevé dans les corridors a rendu la migration des éléphants inexistante dans les deux corridors. Les récentes observations dʼéléphant dans la Réserve de Gbele plaide pour lʼexistence dʼun troisième corridor entre le Parc National de Mole et Bontioli au Burkina Faso via la Réserve de Gbele. Cependant ceci reste à être confirmé.
Mots clé supplémentaires : corridors du Nord Ghana, tendences des elephants, Parc National de Mole, impact humain
Conflits hommes–éléphants dans la Reserve Partielle de Pama, Burkina Faso
Authors: Nakandé Alassane , Belem Adrien , Nianogo Aimé , Jost Christine
Published: November 2024

Les conflits hommes–éléphants restent une réalité inquiétante dans la Réserve Partielle de Pama. Dʼune part les éléphants occasionnent des dégâts souvent importants dans les villages riverains de la réserve, en particulier sur les cultures mais aussi sur les arbres dits de valeur. Les cultures sont attaquées à des stades critiques tels que la maturation et la montaison avec des périodes de pointe en octobre et en novembre pour la pluspart des cultures. Malheureusement les méthodes de lutte restent inefficaces, si bien que cette situation prend de lʼampleur au fil des années. Dʼautre part les populations humaines à travers leurs activités empiètent sur lʼhabitat des éléphants et contribuent ainsi à modifier leurs zones de parcours et à dégrader leur milieu de vie. Les raisons sont entre autres liées aux systèmes de production qui se modernisent, à la croissance démographique et aux flux de migrants dans la zone avec les besoins en ressources naturelles qui vont grandissants.
Human–elephant conflict remains an important problem in the Pama Reserve. Elephants often cause severe damage to crops and high-value trees in the surrounding villages. Most crop damage occurs at the critical vegetative stages, including during flowering and maturity, peaking in October and November. Unfortunately, the deterrent methods used are ineffective and the situation gets worse every year. Human activity is shrinking and degrading elephant habitat, including their migration routes. The causes include modern farming methods, the growing human population, migrants into the area and a growing demand for natural resources.
Parasites gastro-intestinaux des éléphants dans la Reserve Partielle de Pama, Burkina Faso
Authors: Nakandé Alassane , Belem Adrien , Nianogo Aimé , Jost Christine
Published: November 2024

Lʼétude préliminaire sur les parasites gastro-intestinaux des éléphants par la coprologie dans la Réserve Partielle de Pama a montré que ces pachydermes ne sont pas à lʼabri dʼinfestations par les parasites. Les éléphants sont infestés de façon générale et prépondérante par les strongles quelle que soit la période et les zones. En outre dʼautres parasites infestent les éléphants dans une certaine mesure et sont représentés par les Strongyloïdes, les Eimeria spp., les ciliés, les trématodes et les ectoparasites. Leur prévalence serait variable selon les périodes et les zones. Les charges parasitaires et les niveaux dʼinfestations des éléphants restent élevés pour les Stongles par rapport à ceux des Strongyloïdes. Les écarts types de ces indicateurs montrent que certains éléphants sont largement infestés par les parasites tandis que dʼautres seraient à lʼabri de toutes infestations pour des raisons qui restent à élucider. Face à ces données, la mise en place dʼune stratégie de suivi du stress parasitaire des éléphants est nécessaire pour contribuer à la sauvegarde de cette espèce.
Mots clé supplémentaires : prévalence, charges parasitaires, niveaux dʼinfestations, coprologie
This preliminary coprological study on gastrointestinal parasites of elephants in the Réserve Partielle de Pama, showed that these pachyderms are not safe from infestation by parasites. The elephants are generally infested; strongles are the dominant parasites irrespective of the period or zone. Other parasites such as Strongyloides, Eimeria spp., ciliates, trematodes and ectoparasites infest the elephants to a certain extent. Their prevalence is variable depending on the period and zone. Parasitic loads and levels of infestations were high for strongles compared with those of Strongyloides. Standard deviations show that certain elephants are heavily infested by parasites while others are safe from all infestations for reasons that remain to be studied. In the face of these data, a follow-up strategy on the parasitic stress to these elephants is necessary to contribute to conserving this species.
Additional key words : prevalence, parasitic load, levels of infestation, coprology
Elephant movement in W Regional Park, western Africa
Authors: Ipavec Audrey , Maillard Daniel , Chardonnet Philippe , Danes Camille , Wally Mamoudou , Lompo Moussa , Dulieu Dominique
Published: November 2024

Few studies have focused on the elephant population of W Regional Park in western Africa (Benin, Burkina Faso and Niger) with an essentially national perspective rather than a transfrontier one. During a four-month period from April to July 2004, two elephant females were radio-tracked to establish their transfrontier movements. A total of 556 locations were recorded. Home range sizes calculated using the 95% Kernel method were estimated at 2572 km 2 for one female and 1970 km 2 for the other. Home ranges for the two females largely overlapped with close associations recorded during the tracking period. Movements from Niger to the central part of the park (Burkina Faso) through northern Benin were observed at the beginning of the rainy season along the Mekrou River. Regional survey and management practices should be encouraged to allow this remaining large elephant population to maintain itself.
Additional key words: Argos, home range, radio telemetry
Peu d’études se sont portées sur la population d’éléphants du Parc Régional du W, en Afrique de l’Ouest (Bénin, Burkina Faso et Niger), et c’était dans une perspective essentiellement nationale plutôt que transfrontalière. Pendant quatre mois, d’avril à juillet 2004, deux femelles éléphants ont été équipées de colliers radio pour connaître leurs déplacements transfrontaliers. Cela a permis de rapporter 556 localisations. La taille des domaines vitaux calculée par la méthode de Kernel 95 % a été estimée à 2.572 km 2 pour l’une et 1.970 km 2 pour l’autre. Les espaces vitaux des deux femelles se recouvraient fortement et elles étaient étroitement associées pendant la période concernée. Les déplacements des animaux du Niger vers la partie centrale du parc (au Burkina Faso) en passant par le nord du Bénin ont été observés au début de la saison des pluies, le long de la rivière Mekrou. Il faudrait encourager des études régionales et l’adoption de pratiques de gestion transfrontalière pour permettre à cette grande population restante d’éléphants de se maintenir.
Mots clés supplémentaires : Argos, domaine vital, radio télémétrie
Determining minimum population size and demographics of black rhinos in the Salient of Aberdare National Park, Kenya
Authors: Patton Felix , Jones Martin
Published: November 2024

Photographic identification techniques were applied in the Salient of Aberdare National Park, an area known to be one of the most difficult in Kenya for sighting and identifying black rhinos (Diceros bicornis). A method of assessing photographs visually was used to identify individuals. Individual identification features were recorded and an identification description written for each rhino. Descriptions were reduced to ‘descriptors’ and combined with appropriate photographs in a searchable Access database; a simple sighting recording system that could be used in conjunction with the database was developed. The database and a standard method of describing the identification features of each of the rhinos enabled details of individuals to be disseminated, patrol rangers trained to identify individuals accurately, minimum population demography to be described and changes in minimum population size, from potentially 23 in 2003 down to possibly only 7 individuals in 2005, to be observed. Resighting some of the rhinos was a problem, and there was concern that the significant reduction in the number of previously identified individuals may have been due to poaching.
On a appliqué des techniques d’identification photographique dans le Salient du Parc National des Aberdares, une zone connue pour être une des plus difficiles du Kenya pour l’observation et l’identification des rhinos noirs (Diceros bicornis). On a utilisé une méthode d’évaluation visuelle sur photos pour identifier les individus. Les caractéristiques de chaque individu et une description permettant de l’identifier ont été rapportées pour tous les rhinos. Les descriptions ont été réduites à des « descripteurs » et combinées aux photographies appropriées dans une base de données Access ; on a mis au point un système simple de compte-rendu des observations qui peut être utilisé en conjonction avec la base de données. La base de données et une méthode standardisée pour décrire les caractéristiques d’identification de chacun des rhinos ont permis de faire connaître les détails concernant les individus, de former les gardes en patrouille à l’identification précise des animaux, de décrire la démographie minimale de la population et d’observer les changements de la taille minimale de la population qui est passée de 23 animaux potentiels en 2003 à seulement sept en 2005. Il a été problématique de revoir certains des rhinos, et la réduction significative du nombre des individus identifiés auparavant pourrait être due au braconnage.
Quantifying forest elephant social structure in Central African bai environments
Authors: Fishlock Vicki , Lee Phyllis , Breuer Thomas
Published: November 2024

Relatively little is known of social dynamics in forest elephants (Loxodonta africana cyclotis), although the fission-fusion model of sociality known in savanna elephants (Loxodonta africana africana) is used as a template. Until fission-fusion sociality or an alternative model is demonstrated, our understanding of how elephants use their environment remains incomplete. To date, there have been no published studies of associations between individuals in forest elephants. Direct observations of forest elephants made at forest clearings (bais) are used here as an approach to studying these questions. Bais represent a special environment, providing mineral and food resources, as well as potential social opportunities. We show that forest elephants at Mbeli Bai in Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park have association patterns that are consistent over time, and that certain conspecifics are preferred as associates in the bai environment. Coupled with significant differences in the group size and composition across age-sex classes, and a high proportion of sightings of lone individuals, we argue that the fission-fusion model of elephant sociality appears to hold for the bai environment. The extent of this system and the importance of bais as social resources remain to be explored.
Additional keywords: Loxodonta africana cyclotis; fission-fusion sociality; Republic of Congo
Relativement peu est connu de la dynamique sociale dans des éléphants de forêt (Loxodonta africana cyclotis), bien que nous employions le modèle de la société d’éléphant de la savane (Loxodonta africana africana) comme calibre. En attendant que le lien de sociabilité en termes de fission et fusion ou un modèle alternatif soit prouvé, notre compréhension de la façon dont les éléphants utilisent leur environnement reste limité. A ce jour, il n’y a eu aucune étude publiée sur les associations entre les individus dans des éléphants de forêt. Les observations directes des éléphants de forêt effectuées dans les clairières forestières (« bais ») sont utilisées comme une approche pour étudier les interactions sociales. Les bais constituent un environnement spécial, fournissant des ressources minérales et de la nourriture, ainsi que des opportunités d’interactions sociales potentielles. Nos analyses montrent que les éléphants de forêt à Mbeli Bai, au Parc National de Nouabalé-Ndoki ont les associations qui sont constantes dans le temps avec une préférence notoire dans l’association de certains individus. Avec des différences significatives dans la taille et la composition sur base des classes d’âge et sexe, et une grande proportion des observations des éléphants solitaires, nous soutenons que le model « fission-fusion » des éléphants de savanes est évident dans l’environnement du bai. L’ampleur de ce système et l’importance des bais en tant que ressources sociales restent à les explorer.
Injuries of free ranging African elephants ( Loxodonta africana africana ) in various ranges of Kenya
Authors: Obanda V. , Ndeereh D. , Mijele D. , Lekolool I. , Chege S. , Gakuya F. , Omondi P.
Published: November 2024

Incidences of injuries to the free ranging African elephants (Loxodonta africana africana) are common but are rarely analysed to determine the magnitude and their effects on elephant health at population level. We analysed data derived from Kenya Wildlife Service records of reported incidences of injured elephants over a ten-year period (1998-2007) from all conservation areas in Kenya. A total of 397 elephants were reported with different types of injuries. Human inflicted injuries were the most prevalent (66.2%) and consisted of deep intra-dermal gashes. The most affected parts were the forelegs with 37.2% of the injury incidences. Adult males were predominantly injured with 84% prevalence, compared to 17% for females. This preliminary study shows that injuries on elephants are prevalent, with those inflicted by humans being life threatening. However, the effects of the injuries on the population viability and social behaviour need to be investigated further.
Les incidents de blessures des éléphants africains (Loxodonta africana africana) vivant librement sont fréquents mais sont rarement analysés pour en déterminer l’ampleur et leurs effets sur la santé des éléphants au niveau de la population. Nous avons analysé les données provenant des registres du Département Vétérinaire du Service Kenyan de la Faune sur les incidents des éléphants blessés dans toutes les régions de conservation au Kenya rapportés sur une période de 10 ans (1998-2007). Un total de 397 éléphants a été rapporté ayant différents types de blessures. Les blessures causées par l’homme prédominaient (66,2%) et consistaient en des entailles intradermiques profondes. Les parties les plus affectées étaient les pattes antérieures avec 37,2% des incidents de blessure. Les mâles adultes étaient en majorité les plus souvent blessés avec 84% de prédominance, comparés à 17% pour les femelles. Cette étude préliminaire montre que les blessures aux éléphants sont courantes et que celles infligées par les hommes peuvent être mortelles. Cependant, il faut étudier davantage les effets des blessures sur la viabilité de la population et sur le comportement social.