HUMAN-ELEPHANT CONFLICT
Human-elephant conflict (HEC) is one of the biggest challenges elephants face across Africa. HEC is further exacerbated by drought when resources such as food and water are scarce. This can lead to clashes between humans and elephants that sometimes result in injuries or even worse, death. A key part of Save the Elephants' (STE) work is fostering peaceful co-existence between people and elephants in HEC hotspots through a myriad of practical solutions like beehive fences, Rapid Response Units, Watch Towers among other strategies. STE also uses education and outreach programs to win the hearts and minds of people who share the landscape with elephants.
SAVE THE ELEPHANTS
Founded by zoologist Iain Douglas-Hamilton, Save the Elephants (STE) works to understand ecosystems from an elephant’s perspective by studying their movement patterns and behaviour. At their research camp in Samburu National Reserve, northern Kenya, a team of researchers monitor and collect data on wild elephants every day, deepening their intimate knowledge of these magnificent creatures. This has made the elephants of Samburu one of the best-studied elephant populations in the world, with detailed histories of almost 1,000 individuals and their interactions over the last 29 years.
Save the Elephants (STE) works to secure a future for elephants. Specializing in elephant research, they provide scientific insights into elephant behavior, intelligence, and long-distance movements and apply them to the challenges of elephant survival. High tech tracking and other tools helps STE work towards a harmonious coexistence between humans and elephants.
The Ewaso Nyiro river in Samburu, northern Kenya, is a critical lifeline for elephants and other wildlife. The mighty river and other tributaries are a key resource for water, shade and green riverine vegetation. During the drought, elephants are forced to dig in the riverbed for water in order to survive. In doing so, they also provide water for other animals who share this harsh environment. But what happens when this critical resource has been fully exhausted? The elephants move, travelling great distances across the vast landscape of northern Kenya, chasing the rains.
