The Status of Forest elephant in the world heritage DJA Faunal Reserve, Cameroon

A significant decline of Central African forest elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis) by 62% between 2002 and 2011, primarily due to poaching for illegal ivory trade, has been confirmed in the UNESCO World Heritage Dja Faunal Reserve (DFR), Cameroon. Using dung-based distance-sampling surveys covering 5,260 km², researchers estimated a population of just 219 individuals (95% CI: 150–319) with a density of 0.042 individuals/km², reflecting severe losses similar to those in Korup National Park. Elephants persist mainly in the northern DFR, where community partnerships and increased patrols are being implemented, while the southern sector remains vulnerable to organized wildlife crime. The study highlights the urgent need for enhanced security, community engagement, and SMART-based patrolling to protect the remaining population and restore its expansion across the landscape.

Amin, R., Fankem, O., Gilbert, O. N., Bruce, T., Ndjassi, C., Olson, D., & Fowler, A. (2020). The Status of Forest elephant in the world heritage DJA Faunal Reserve, Cameroon. Pachyderm, 61, 78–89. https://doi.org/10.69649/pachyderm.v61i.19