Original Research

Distribution and status of the African elephant Loxodonta africana in South Africa, 1652-1992

A.J. Hall-Martin
Koedoe | Vol 35, No 1 | a390 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/koedoe.v35i1.390 | © 1992 National Parks Board
Submitted: 22 September 1992 | Published: 22 September 1992

About the author(s)

A.J. Hall-Martin, National Parks Board, South Africa

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Abstract

The historical decline of African elephants to a low of 120 animals in 1920, and their subsequent recovery to over 10 000 is described for the major populations of South Africa. Population growth rates of 6,8 and 6,7 per annum are derived from census and estimates for the Kruger National Park and the Addo Elephant National Park respectively. The reasons for elephant population control in the Kruger National Park, and the impact of elephants on both the Kruger and Addo environments, are discussed. The translocation of young elephants to found new populations is mentioned. The consequent increase of elephant range and numbers in the next decade to a possible maximum of 31 000 km2 and 13 000 animals, is envisaged.

Keywords

African elephant, Loxodonta africana, population density, translocation, culling, census, ivory trade.

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