Conservation and Management Strategy for the Elephant in Kenya

CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGY FOR THE ELEPHANT IN KENYA 45
Research is also required on effects of localised high elephant density (i.e. elephant population whose movement is
restricted either through erection of physical barriers or human settlement) on habitat, including important plant
and animal communities, and on elephant population needs for land and corridors, threats and solutions. It is very
important to note that the interaction between elephants and vegetation is not simple, either geographically or
through time. Elephants are generalists and they have effects on trees, shrubs and grass, and can switch between
different species and different plant types, persisting on one type if the other is reduced. The population dynamics
of trees and bushes are slow, and if high elephant densities reduce large trees, any small trees/seedlings can still be
affected by low densities of remaining elephants. There is no single ‘preferred elephant density’ that can be easily
defined that will allow a community of preferred plants and animals to persist. Instead, localised elephant effects
should be encouraged to vary across a landscape, so that diversity is present at a broad scale (van Aarde & Jackson,
2007).
The economics of crop failure, identifying elephant impact in relation to other causes, financial aspects of the role
of elephants in revenue generation and land use and livelihoods in elephant landscapes are important aspects for
research.
Target Action Timeline Actors Indicators
3.1.1 Conduct aerial census of key rangeland
populations every four years (Tsavo, Meru, Laikipia
/Samburu, Amboseli, Mara / Narok, Nasolot /
South Turkana 1 ) and where census is not possible
an estimate through surveys.
Every
four yrs
KWS
• Survey reports produced
and disseminated
3.1 Effective and sustained
systems for monitoring
elephant numbers in key
forest and rangeland
populations carried out
every four years.
3.1.2 Refine and test methods for improved
surveys of forest populations (Mt. Elgon).
3.1.3 Apply standardised improved forest survey
method(s) to key forest populations (Mt. Elgon,
Mt Kenya, Aberdares, Mau, Marsabit 2 ).
2012 KWS
Every
four yrs
KWS
• Reports produced
with analysis of data,
evaluation of methods
and recommendations
• Survey reports produced
and disseminated
3.1.4 Carry out surveys to establish status of less
known populations (aerial/ground) (e.g. Boni /
Dodori, Lamu / Tana River, Malka Mari, Turkana /
Kidepo, Nguruman / Mau 3 ).
Every
four yrs
KWS /
partners
• Survey reports produced
and disseminated
• Number of trained staff
3.2.1 Pilot MIST system in two PAs within two
years (Tsavo, Mara).
2012 KWS
• Report with
recommendations
produced for
management
• Depending
on trial results:
3.2 Standardised ranger /
scout based monitoring
implemented by 2013 in
four priority areas to
provide information for
management and
TRAFFIC/CITES.
3.2.2 Expand MIST to two new areas based on
trials 4 . 2012-2013 KWS
• Number of trained staff
• Data in MIST system
• Annual
monitoring reports
disseminated for
management and
TRAFFIC/CITES
3.2.3 Standardise elephant mortality monitoring
and reporting country-wide in collaboration with
other partners.
2012
onwards
KWS
and
partners
• Standardised monitoring
system in place
• Annual reports of
elephant mortality
produced and circulated