Conservation Mystery of Elephant Deaths in Botswana
The Botswana Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, Conservation and Tourism announced last week that 275 elephants have mysteriously died in the Seronga Region over the last few months.
Despite speculation in the media, it is not yet known why hundreds of elephants have died in and around the Okavango Delta. So far 356 elephant carcasses have been reported, with 275 deaths confirmed. The conservation organisation, Elephants Without Borders (EWB) reported that they have seen some elephants looking very weak, lethargic and emaciated. Some are showing signs of disorientation, difficulty walking or limping – “one elephant was observed walking in circles, unable to change direction although being encouraged by other herd members” (EWB). This might suggest that something is impacting their brain function.
Poaching has been ruled out as the elephants were found with their tusks still intact. Samples have been taken to discover if these elephant have been poisoned, if their deaths are due to an unknown disease or if it is because of a naturally occurring toxin in their habitat. These samples will be sent to be tested in laboratories in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Canada.
Botswana has the world’s largest elephant population, estimated at 130,000 – approximately one third of all elephants found in Africa. This unprecedented death rate is not a normal phenomenon, even in times of drought. Until test results come back it won’t be known how best the Botswana Government can respond to this potential conservation disaster.
For updates visit the Botswana Department of National Wildlife and Parks Facebook Page.