We found this fascinating and insightful video on how poaching is changing the face of African elephants. We hope you find it interesting too.
Interesting Facts About Elephants and Poaching
- In the 1500’s there were an estimated 26 million elephants roaming across the African continent, today there are less that 500,000.
- African elephants are a keystone species in the ecosystem.
- The value of ivory has been compared to diamonds and in some countries it represents status.
- One third of an elephant’s tusk is still in its skull and cannot be extracted easily. Poachers therefore kill elephants so that they can remove the tusks.
- About six percent of elephants are born tuskless. In recent years scientists have found that more and more elephants are being born without tusks or with smaller tusks. This may be a survival mechanism against poaching.
VIDEO: How Poaching is Changing the Face of African Elephants
Elephants in Addo Elephant National Park
Addo Elephant National Park, situated 15 minutes drive from Kudu Ridge Game Lodge, opened in 1931 as a sanctuary for just 11 elephants. Today there are over 600 elephants living in the park. The area provides a haven for these majestic creatures in which they can roam safely and in peace.
Book your stay with us at Kudu Ridge Game Lodge and enquire about our Addo tours in this majestic park.
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