Changes in tree populations of Tsavo East National Park, Kenya*

Abstract

SummaryTo assess distribution, density and population trends under the impact of elephants and other browsing herbivores, trees of four common species were counted in belt transects along existing roads in Tsavo East National Park in 1970 and 1974. In three of the four species, mature and recruitment‐age trees declined substantially during this period. The reduction can be attributed almost entirely to utilization by elephants. The fourth species showed a slight increase in mature and recruitment‐age trees; significantly, it is not eaten by elephants. A high regeneration potential (trees <1 m high) still exists, even in the worst‐affected species. However, most of the young in dividuals do not reach recruitment age due to the heavy browsing to which they are subjected. Whether the recent reduction of the elephant population has been sufficient to reverse this trend, remains to be seen; much depends on rainfall, too, which was below average during the period considered.