Movement patterns of forest elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis Matschie, 1900) in the Odzala‐Kokoua National Park, Republic of Congo

Forest elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis) exhibit distinct movement patterns influenced by environmental and anthropogenic factors, with females traveling farther than males. The study, conducted in Odzala-Kokoua National Park using GPS-collared individuals tracked over 16 months, found that roads and human settlements disrupt elephant behavior, leading to faster displacements. Elephants moved more rapidly along watercourses and in Marantaceae-dominated forests but slowed in savannahs. Flood-prone areas and higher temperatures also hindered longer movements. These findings provide critical insights into the species' habitat use, aiding conservation efforts.

Molina‐Vacas, G., Muñoz‐Mas, R., Martínez‐Capel, F., Rodriguez‐Teijeiro, J. D., & Le Fohlic, G. (2019). Movement patterns of forest elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis Matschie, 1900) in the Odzala‐Kokoua National Park, Republic of Congo. African Journal of Ecology, 58(1), 23–33. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/aje.12695