The trophy hunting of 2 of Botswana’s largest tuskers threatens community wealth, a wildlife corridor & tusker survival. By Simon Espley
Category Archives: Natural history
South and central Madagascar
South and central Madagascar is popular with tourists who enjoy the spiny forests, elegant sifakas, ring-tailed lemurs and desert canyons
Hosana, famous Sabi Sand leopard, killed under tragic circumstances
Well-known leopard Hosana of Sabi Sand is believed to have been killed in self-defence by an anti-poaching unit on patrol
Iconic Amboseli super tusker Tolstoy dies
Famous Amboseli super tusker Tolstoy has died at the age of 51, six weeks after being treated for a spear wound
Trophy hunters kill two of Africa’s biggest elephants in Botswana
Trophy hunters have killed 2 of the largest elephants left in Africa. The ongoing removal of large-tusked elephants is a conservation concern
Counting animals – the technology helping conservationists
Counting wild animals can be a complicated process, particularly when estimating populations in some of Africa’s massive protected wild areas
Botswana to develop 8 new lodges on Chobe Riverfront?
Botswana’s dubious call for tenders for 8 new lodges in Chobe NP, despite regulations preventing developments, has angered environmentalists
Big cat farming and the illegal tiger trade in South Africa
South Africa’s illegal tiger trade and farming of other big cats threatens the wild populations of these animals across the world
Jackals of Africa – consummate survivors
Jackals are the ultimate survivors of the African bushveld. These social & intelligent canids are expert opportunists and masterful lurkers
Super tusker Tolstoy treated for spear wound
Amboseli super tusker Tolstoy is in recovery after being treated for a spear wound, following a midnight raid on nearby crops.
Namibia’s elephant auction: Evaluating the results
Namibia’s controversial elephant auction: balancing conservation, welfare and legality – Opinion editorial
Japan: An illegal ivory trader’s haven – new report
Japan’s domestic ivory market is driving the illegal ivory trade around the globe, creating a cover for illicit imports and exports
Southern ground-hornbill – Africa’s rara avis
The southern ground-hornbill is a complex, social, endangered species that marks the dawn chorus with its haunting, thunderous call
Caracals of Cape Town – navigating a landscape of fear
Caracals navigate the dangers of the urban Cape, attracted to the edge of urban spaces at a significant potential risk – new research.
Gerenuk – Africa’s gawky oddball
Gerenuk: these tiny giraffe gazelle are endearing, somewhat comic and almost alien in appearance – and high on the safari bucket list
Hope for African wild dogs? New report
Could we double African wild dog (painted wolf) numbers by 2050? With funding, collaboration and recovered territory, it’s possible.
More forest elephants in Gabon than previously thought – new research
Good news: there are more forest elephants in Gabon than previously believed – first countrywide elephant population estimate in 30 years
Kruger rhino poaching update: 75% population reduction in 10 years
Rhino poaching has decimated Kruger NP populations by 75% in 10 years. We dive into the latest research figures from SANParks
Wildlife corridors – paths of connection and hope
Wildlife corridors are used by lions, elephants & other large creatures. If humans avoid those corridors they can reduce loss of lives & livelihood
The emotions of human-wildlife conflict
Human-wildlife conflict – emotions and cultural significance attached to wild carnivores strongly influence mitigation strategies. New Research
Northern Madagascar
Northern Madagascar – biodiversity, lush rainforests, mangroves, azure lagoons, palm-fringed beaches, lemurs and ferocious fossa
Eastern Madagascar
A journey through eastern Madagascar is an adventure for endemic lemurs, birds, reptiles, pristine beaches and ancient forest
Western Madagascar
Western Madagascar boasts iconic images and creatures – fossas, lemurs galore, upside-down trees and rocks with teeth!
Thomson’s gazelle – underappreciated speedster
The Thomson’s gazelle is an under-appreciated antelope of the Mara-Serengeti – a terrific athlete, and integral part of the Great Migration
Lion nomad settles in Zinave NP – first in 30 years
A large nomad lion has settled in the remote Zinave NP, Mozambique; the first lion there in 30 years – major conservation success story
Orange bat discovered in Guinea
A new (orange) bat species has been discovered in Guinea. With bright orange fur and black wings, Myotis nimbaensis is unlike any other bat
Furore over Namibian community-based conservation
Journalists target Namibia’s community-based conservation program. This is what 76 affected entities have to say – decide for yourself
Giraffe conservation status – latest numbers give hope!
Good news! All 4 giraffe species populations have been increasing after sustained conservation interventions
High society – spotted hyena inherit social networks
High-ranking spotted hyena cubs inherit a social network of allies which increases access to resources & breeding opportunities: New research
Tana River primates – on a broken wildlife highway
The critically endangered Tana River red colobus & mangabey are endemic to the forests on the banks of the Tana River
Poaching and tuskless elephants – the scientific confirmation
Ivory poaching selectively drives the evolution of tuskless elephants – new research confirms what many experts have suggested for decades
Herding 4 Health – people, livestock and conservation
Herding 4 Health is a rural community activity promoting conservation by teaching innovative herding in and near wildlife areas
Sunbird feathers and the sweltering cost of beauty
Gorgeous iridescent sunbird feathers play an essential role in visual communication but could dangerously increase heat absorption – new research
Caracal – Africa’s deadly beauty
The caracal, with its luminous eyes, dramatic ear tufts, bold facial markings and stocky physique is arguably Africa’s most exquisite cat
Mobilising Africa’s biodiversity experts to put nature on the decision-making map
African biodiversity experts mobilise to produce a continental map of ‘biodiversity intactness’ for African decision-makers.
Striped hyena – the forgotten fourth hyena
Striped hyenas lurk in the shadows, shy and elusive. They are seldom seen, poorly understood and may answer our questions on hyena evolution
White-bellied pangolin pups in Nigeria
White-bellied pangolin pups, rescued from an animal market in Lagos, desperately need help from Namibian pangolin expert Maria Diekmann
Bees – a solution to human-elephant conflict
Bees and elephants – their busy, buzzing ways are providing a solution to human-elephant conflict – an innovative conservation solution
Grabbing the lion by the tail – intervention vs interference
Grabbing the lion by the tail – Interference and intervention in the lives of wild animals are controversial and there are no simple answers as to when or if they are appropriate. Jamie Paterson gives her perspectives.
Oryx – four legendary spear-tipped antelope
Oryx – four robust, dignified and courageous species. Icons of the desert perfectly adapted to their desiccated rangelands.
Crossing the human-wildlife barrier
Crossing the human-wildlife barrier – is it ever okay? Three positive African examples involving a pangolin, a blesbok and a clan of hyenas
African eagles – Avian apex predators, part 1
African eagles soar through the skies, sharp-eyed and fierce, bringing unexpected death from above to their prey.
Chobe National Park – Africa’s elephant Eden
Chobe National Park boasts the world’s highest elephant density, lush riverine woodland & vast dry savannas – embodying the safari spirit
Counting the Cape parrot – Africa’s rarest
Counting Africa’s rarest parrot – the Cape parrot – on a mountain top in Magoebaskloof, South Africa. By teamAG, led by CEO Simon Espley
Sable and Roan – the ‘horse-goat’ antelopes
Sable and roan – the two magnificent Hippotragus antelope – delight in their majestic bearing, gorgeous coats and rapier horns.
Wildlife economy in the Africa – Unlocking the potential
The ‘State of the Wildlife Economy in Africa’ report inspires investment in nature to improve conservation and support economic development.
Mukalya Private Game Reserve – Rescuing wilderness
Mukalya Private Game Reserve is a gorgeous piece of restored wilderness on the Zambezi River – an inspiring, family run safari experience.
Is lion hunting sustainable?
Lion hunting sustainability in Africa has been extensively investigated by pragmatic experts desperate to conserve our remaining wild lions
70 – leopard trophy hunting quota in Botswana for 2022
Leopard trophy hunting – the Botswana government has allocated a quota of 70 leopards for 2022. Is this sustainable and how do we know?
Hyena cubs infected by parasite ‘self-sacrifice’ by approaching lions
Funky fact: Hyena cubs ‘self-sacrifice’ by recklessly approaching lions if infected by a microscopic parasite. New research
Chimps kill baby gorillas – observed for the first time
Chimps kill gorilla babies in two separate incidents in Loango National Park, Gabon – the first time the behaviour has ever been observed
Odzala-Kokoua National Park – biodiversity bonanza
Odzala-Kokoua NP in Congo is one of Africa’s hidden gems – a testament to the resilience of both the continent’s people and her ecosystems
Leopard conservation in South Africa
Leopard conservation in South Africa requires a metapopulation strategy and a sustained, transparent commitment from government – expert opinion
Why rural communities choose wildlife hunting over cattle
Rural communities choose wildlife over cattle if they see and enjoy long term benefits from trophy hunting – says Namibian community member
Trophy hunters kill another breeding Hwange lion – Mopane
Trophy hunters kill another breeding lion (named Mopane) from Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park – in a mirror of the Cecil tragedy
Forest elephant – endangered gardeners
Forest elephant numbers are believed to have plummeted 86% in just 31 years yet their role in maintaining forest ecosystems is critical.
Marvellous meerkats – mongooses of the desert
Marvellous Meerkats – socially complex and fascinating little mongooses found across the deserts of Southern Africa.
Namibia’s livestock guarding dogs are saving cheetahs
Guard dogs are saving cheetahs, says new research based on livestock guarding dogs – because livestock losses have reduced by 91%
A journey to see Africa’s threatened sea turtles
Five of the world’s seven magnificent sea turtles swim Africa’s oceans and nest on the beaches – all are threatened by human beings
Wildebeest sleep and the mysteries of slumber
Wildebeest sleep for just four and a half hours in a 24 hour period – most deeply in the dead of night – says new research
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with the famous crater at its heart, is a spectacular, year-round safari destination of abundance,breathtaking vistas and ancient history.
Do we have an elephant problem?
The ‘elephant problem’ – ecologists, landowners and tourists are grappling with the elephant problem. But what does this mean?
The science behind rebranding wild dogs
Rebranding wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) – new research suggests that “painted dog” triggers the most positive reaction from humans
Luangwa Valley – vast Zambian wilderness
The Luangwa Valley is a vast Zambian wilderness and playground for tourists seeking an authentic safari experience
Lake Malawi – freshwater beach & island paradise
Lake Malawi is one of Africa’s best-kept travel secrets – a freshwater lake surrounded by gorgeous beaches, islands and biodiversity with endless opportunities for fun and relaxation.
How the Kilimanjaro glaciers left truth in the cold
Kilimanjaro’s disappearing glaciers have been a symbol of climate change for more than than 15 years. Science says it is much more complicated.
Otters of Africa – four adorable mustelids
There are four species of otter in Africa – all of them intelligent, playful, fascinating predators.
Do tracking collars impact animals negatively?
New research indicates that animals fitted with tracking collars, experience no long-term, negative effects. Further research is needed however.
White-eared kob and tiang migration South Sudan
A recent survey in South Sudan by the NGO Space for Giants shows that the white-eared kob and tiang migration, continues, despite decades-long civil wars
The end of SA’s shameful lion breeding industry – what now happens to the lions?
Thousands of captive-bred lions in South Africa – what is to happen to them as breeding facilities are closed down
Lion farming and zoonotic diseases
The zoonotic diseases that lions carry and why lion farming is potentially harmful to human beings – new research
Rhino poaching in Botswana – why the smoke and mirrors?
Rhino poaching in Botswana – we try to make sense of the rumours and our CEO asks why the smoke and mirrors?
Four giraffe species, seven subspecies: new research
Giraffe – four species and seven subspecies the correct division – says new research
Banks must help fight illegal wildlife trade
Banks can help fight illegal wildlife trade but their failure to identify the financial footprints of poaching syndicates results in lost opportunities to disrupt trade – new research
Serval
With its long limbs, spotted coat and characteristic spring-loaded pounce, the serval is one of the most striking cat species in Africa
Tuli
Botswana’s Tuli is a place where the wind carries stories of the past, whispering over rocks, around baobabs and across the vast wilderness
New pack of African painted dogs released
Endangered African painted dogs – a new pack has been released into the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Reserve in another conservation milestone for the species
Recreational hunting: 50 years of scientific research
Trophy hunting: Massive meta-analysis on recreational hunting fails to find answers to the crucial questions of the polarising hunting debate
Chobe River lions face an uncertain future
Lions in the Chobe River area face an uncertain future – pressured by human farmers to the north and a lack of new blood from the south
Elephant range is just a fraction of its potential
Africa’s elephants occupy just 17% of their possible range, their historical areas fragmented by human activity. There is potential for expansion – new research
The restoration of Gorongosa National Park
Gorongosa: A long-lost doctoral thesis by an ecologist far ahead of his time helps unleash the massive potential of Gorongosa National Park, Mozambique
African grey parrots in traditional medicine
African grey parrots are targeted for medicinal and spiritual practices in West Africa. The trade is a significant threat to grey parrots – new research
Giraffes vs lions
Lions vs a mother giraffe and her baby. This exceptional photo gallery by Kenyan guide James Nampaso showcases real wild Africa
PROTECTING PARADISE – Mauritius
Mauritius – an island beach paradise that also offers volcanic mountains, ancient forest & incredible biodiversity – the perfect green safari
It’s true – elephants are thriving in Namibia
Counting elephants is not easy. It itakes experience, skill and funding. The good news: elephants are thriving in Namibia.
Forest elephants – vanishing ghosts
Forest elephants have finally been granted species status (something scientists have known for decades). With this has come the appalling IUCN classification of ‘critically endangered’
Safari Season – visit Africa in Dec, Jan, Feb
When is the best safari season in Africa? We answer one of the most common safari questions with a comprehensive look at the best African destinations and when to visit them in December, January and February,
Safari Season – visit Africa in Sept, Oct, Nov
When is the best safari season in Africa? We answer one of the most common safari questions with a comprehensive look at the best African destinations and when to visit them in September, October and November.
Safari Season – visit Africa in Jun, Jul, Aug
When is the best safari season in Africa? We answer one of the most common safari questions with a comprehensive look at the best African destinations and when to visit them in June, July and August.
Safari Season – visit Africa in Mar, Apr, May
When is the best safari season in Africa? We answer one of the most common safari questions with a comprehensive look at the best African destinations and when to visit them in March, April and May.
Mandrill – a colourful character
The mandrill is a colourful, tool-using, socially complex monkey that lives in groups called hordes in the forests of western Central Africa.
Elephant hunting – Botswana grants 287 licenses
Botswana elephant hunting: The Botswanan government has granted 287 licenses after the previous season was disrupted by Covid
Translocating lions does not reduce conflict – research
New research from Botswana shows that translocating lions in conflict with livestock owners is expensive and results in high lion mortality, repeat offences and very little reduction in human-lion conflict.
African canids – 11 fascinating species
Today, 11 African canids, from excitable African painted wolves and shrewd jackals to the tiny fox species, hunt the continent’s desert, alpine grassland, savanna and woodland.
Kasanka Bat Migration – an astonishing natural wonder
The Kasanka bat migration in Zambia is the largest mammal migration on planet earth. It’s a spectacular must-see for nature lovers
Fairy circles – ghostly footprints of dead Euphorbias
Fairy circles – Euphorbia toxins are responsible for the bizarre fairy circles that have baffled and fascinated scientists – new research
Laikipia – land of staggering natural beauty
Laikipia in Kenya – a land of staggering beauty & biodiversity – a mosaic of wildlife conservancies, ranchlands & commercial farms
SEEK and ye shall find – elephant identification
Elephant identification is a difficult task – but a new system based on ear patterns is making the task easier – research by Elephants Alive
Rhino poaching in Botswana – is pride hampering prevention?
Is political pride hurting efforts to stop rhino poaching in Botswana? Reports from the field suggest that rhino poaching in Botswana has reached crisis point while the government denies this is the case.
