Population estimates and threats to elephantsLoxodonta africana(Blumenbach 1797) in the Mago National Park, Ethiopia

Abstract

An estimate of the number of elephants Loxodonta africana (Blumenbach 1797) was made in the Mago National Park, Ethiopia, from June 1997 to April 1998. The population size was estimated indirectly from the droppings using line transects within an area of 1,564 km2. The estimate of the elephant population for the Mago National Park was between 387 and 575. The observed density for the whole park was 0.22 elephant/km2. The maximum number in a herd from a total of seven sightings was 182. The available data from field observations and knowledge of the local people were used to assess the extent of poaching. Between August 1997 and April 1998, 26 elephants were killed mainly for ivory. Most of the poaching activities took place in the dry season. There are about 10,000 beehives in the park. Differentiating true honey gatherers from poachers is a problem. The elephants of Mago belong to a very small population that may be approaching the critical lower limit for long-term survival. Possible solutions to the current conservation problems are discussed. KEY WORDS: elephants, Loxodonta africana, poaching, population estimates, conservation, Mago National Park, Ethiopia.