We conduct vital research on elephant behaviour and ecology and pioneered GPS radio tracking in Africa to provide fresh insight into the life of elephants. At our research station in Samburu National Reserve, northern Kenya, STE researchers study wild elephants on a daily basis. Over 900 identified elephants have been recorded using the Ewaso Ny’iro river over many decades, and our intimate knowledge of their family structures and history has opened a rare world into the behaviour of elephants. At our second research station in Tsavo, southeastern Kenya, our Human-Elephant Coexistence team is investigating solutions to the long term challenges that elephants face. To access our research, click here
© Robbie Labanowski
Science
Behaviour & society
The Samburu elephant population is one of the most extensively studied in the world. The elephants’ births, deaths, and interactions are closely monitored, making this population a valuable resource for understanding elephant society. The data gathered helps us to gain insight into population dynamics, social structure, individual and population dietary preferences, seasonal dispersal, paternity from DNA, and mortality from different causes including illegal killing.
Movement
As technology has evolved, Save the Elephants has found innovative solutions to conservation problems by incorporating GPS-tracking to understand elephant lives, decisions, and needs. Our STE Wildtracks App enables us to conduct real-time monitoring of elephant movements. The data compiled is used to make critical decisions about elephant corridors as well as to respond quickly to elephants in distress.
Monitoring
We assist in implementing a UN-level programme to monitor the illegal killing of elephants. Our solid scientific data has helped shift international policy towards a better future for the species. Through our coexistence project, Save the Elephants is working to resolve the rising issue of conflict between humans and elephants so as to ensure a sustainable future for elephants while promoting harmonious coexistence. We also assist in implementing a UN-level programme to monitor the illegal killing of elephants. Our solid scientific data has helped shift international policy towards a better future for the species.
