According to the Wildlife Conservation Society, the once 3,500 strong population of elephants in the Zakouma National Park of the Sahel region of Chad (Census 2006) has been decimated by ivory poachers to a mere 1,000 animals, as seen by a recent “MegaFlyover”. Sadder still, this very population of animals was at a similar level in 1985 before conservation efforts were successful in the recovery of population numbers. The current numbers approach only 10% of the estimated 10 million African elephants that roamed the savannah in the 1900s.
Because its staff has stood firm in the face of adversity, Zakouma remains the best protected park in central Africa. But the fight to save its elephants is urgent. The Chadian authorities have pledged to safeguard the herds when they leave the park during the wet season and prevent incursions of poachers into the park. Information networks must be strengthened, and collaboration with Chad’s military enforced.
[via WCS]
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