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Will Greater Kruger cull elephants?
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From our CEO – Simon Espley
Elephant culling: what the science actually says
My networks have been buzzing with claims that culling is back on the table in some of the Kruger private reserves (APNR) – the same reserves we hold up as tourism success stories. When I’ve pressed senior APNR management on the science behind their thinking, the responses have been vague, defensive, and at times openly hostile. That reaction is what convinced me to dig in and write the article below.
It’s a long read, and deliberately so. There’s a lot to take in, and I’d ask you to sit with it rather than skim. You’ll hear from scientists and elephant experts about ice cream trees, fear zones, and why culling won’t do what its advocates promise; it won’t save the trees.
What you’ll come to see is that culling means killing a threatened species with a rapidly declining population to compensate for our own past, and ongoing, conservation blunders.
The debate is dominated by a slogan: “there are too many elephants, so cull them.” It’s a clean line, and that’s exactly the problem; it collapses the moment you test it against the evidence. Even careful, intelligent people reach for that straight-line logic, because it settles an uncomfortable question quickly. The science doesn’t let us off so easily.
This article will frustrate anyone hoping the answer is simple. But the elephants deserve better than a slogan, and so do you.
So read it in full. Weigh what the experts actually say. And if you find it useful, pass it on. Then, if APNR management do decide to cull – in whatever form, and whatever they choose to call the intentional killing of elephants – respect that the decision is theirs to make, but hold them personally accountable for it. These are, after all, our elephants.
Simon Espley – CEO, Africa Geographic
Click below to listen to this editorial
Or, listen to all Simon’s past editorials here
From our Editor – Taryn van Jaarsveld
Could asking the spirits for help be the answer to our environmental troubles? In southern Benin, conservationists have found a unique way to ensure the protection of disappearing mangrove forests, and it isn’t through fences or fines. They’re working with Vodun spiritual leaders to declare threatened mangroves sacred. Before a forest is protected, a Fâ priest seeks permission from the spirits, drawing on the authority of the Zangbéto deity to prohibit the cutting down of trees, fishing, and other destructive activities. In some villages, spiritual guardians ensure these traditions are upheld. For many local communities, that spiritual authority carries more weight than any government regulation. The approach has already helped safeguard around 500 hectares of mangroves, protecting one of West Africa’s most important carbon stores. Where conservation builds on deeply held cultural values, protection can become part of everyday life rather than simply a legal obligation.
This week, discover why Kenya’s Meru National Park deserves a place on every safari traveller’s radar, from its remarkable wildlife recovery to its rich conservation history. Plus, don’t miss Simon’s Op-Ed on the great elephant management debate.
Did you know?
We donate a portion of the revenue from every safari sold to carefully selected conservation projects that make a significant difference at ground level. YOUR safari choice does make a difference – thank you!
Our stories this week
OP ED: KRUGER CULLING
Will Kruger’s private reserves cull elephants? Simon Espley explores the science and policy behind the elephant management debate
MERU NP
Meru National Park is a resilient expanse of vital Kenyan wilderness. This Big 5 safari destination of Born Free fame is a land reborn
Travel Desk – 2 African safari ideas
Liuwa & Busanga – Zambia’s iconic floodplains – 12 days
Liuwa and Busanga’s seemingly boundless horizon reminds us of East Africa’s most renowned safari destinations – MINUS THE CROWDS. Discover Zambia at its wildest across the Busanga Plains and Liuwa Plain National Park, where vast floodplains, dramatic skies and remote wilderness set the stage for exceptional wildlife. Expect thriving predator populations, seasonal wildflowers, abundant birdlife and Africa’s second largest wildebeest migration, all without the crowds.
Maasai Mara explorer – 11 days
This safari explores two distinct regions of the Maasai Mara, from the wild solitude of the Sand River in the south to the Mara River crossing drama of the central reserve. Expect exceptional Big Five and predator sightings, authentic owner-run tented camps, meaningful Maasai cultural encounters and seamless flights between camps, allowing more time to experience one of Africa’s greatest wildlife spectacles.
Still dreaming of the ultimate African safari escape? Browse our safari ideas here. Or click here to plan your safari.
Our safari guests say…
AG safari guests Rui and Natercia from Portugal went on a Congo Basin expedition to find gorillas in Odzala-Kokoua, Congo-Brazzaville.
Odzala-Kokoua and Camp Imbalanga. “The organisation of our trip to Camp Imbalanga in Odzala-Kokoua NP was extremely professional and efficient. Luis and Lumbani were tireless in easing our doubts and making sure that the safari fitted our wishes. Their help with the thorough preparation of all visa documents for the Congo embassy ensured a seamless entry into the country. And last but not least, Camp Imbalanga was a good surprise – Imbalanga Baï gifted us with unforgettable sightings of unhabituated lowland gorilla families. The Congo Basin forests and rivers in Odzala-Kokoua were so beautiful and pristine that we felt as though we were the first humans there.”
Check out our safaris to Odzala-Kokoua NP here.
WATCH
Check out our new Shorts series, Masters of disguise. In each instalment, we’ll look at a different African animal that has mastered the art of camouflage. Join our safari expert, Stefan Winterboer, as he explains why the leopard is the ultimate master of disguise. (01:17) Click here to watch
Cover image: “Circles of protection” – a story of matriarchal and herd protection, of the African elephants’ dignified dedication to protecting their young and their species. Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa © John Vosloo. Winner of Photographer of the Year 2017.
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