Niassa Reserve has been at the front line of the elephant poaching crisis, and within the reserve, elephants have declined by 70% between 2009 and 2015 (from ~15,000 to ~4,400 animals). There are also an estimated 1,000 animals just south of NNR.
ANAC and WCS have initiated an elephant protection program in NNR. We have collared thirty animals and are using satellite data about their movements to focus Reserve and Operators' protection efforts. The strategic deployment of patrols is further supported by aerial monitoring from WCS's aircraft.
This remains one of Africa’s most significant elephant populations, especially given the enormous extent of wild habitat available. In fact, Niassa is one of the few areas remaining in Africa capable of one day once again holding tens of thousands of elephants.
© WCS, Mike Kock