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Alarming rate of decrease in African elephant count

Context

A recent study has highlighted the severe decline of African elephant populations particularly savannah elephants and forest elephants.

About Population Decline

  • Savannah elephants: Populations fell by approximately 70% at surveyed sites.
  • Forest elephants: Experienced an even steeper decline of around 90%.
  • Overall decline: Across both species and all surveyed sites, an average population reduction of 77% was observed.
  • Major reasons for this decline: Poaching and habitat loss. The Northern Sahel region (Mali, Chad and Nigeria) is affected due to high poaching pressures and limited protection.

Difference between Asian & African Elephant

Feature Indian (Asian) Elephant African Elephant
Ears Smaller, rounded ears Larger, fan-shaped ears resembling the shape of Africa
Tusks Only some male Asian elephants have large, visible tusks. While most females and some males have small tusks, called tushes Both males and females have large, curved tusks
Social Structure Smaller herds of 5-15 females. The largest and oldest female elephant herd member is in charge (known as the matriarch) of the herd. Larger herds of up to 70 elephants  led by a matriarch.
Habitat Found in forests, grasslands, and scrublands in Asia (e.g., India, Sri Lanka) Inhabits savannas, forests and deserts across Africa
Conservation Status (IUCN) Endangered Savanna – Endangered

Forest – Critically Endangered

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Piyush
Piyush
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