Elephants on the move: Kenyan park tackles overcrowding crisis
The population of African elephants in the Mwea Nature Reserve in Kenya has expanded so significantly in recent years that the animals no longer fit within the park's confines. Authorities have had to decide their future.
The Mwea Nature Reserve spans an area of 41 square kilometres and is situated in southern Kenya. Besides the African elephants, Nile crocodiles, giraffes, African leopards, and warthogs also inhabit the park.
In recent weeks, however, the reserve has become exceptionally overcrowded. This is due to the elephant population having tripled.
The animals posed a threat to residents
The reserve authorities received reports from concerned residents. "The elephants started wandering onto farms and settlements," said Rebecca Miano from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in Kenya. The local population was worried about the roaming elephants.
Therefore, at the start of October, the park authorities decided to relocate 50 elephants to Aberdare National Park. This special operation is being carried out with government support and presents quite a challenge, as an average African elephant weighs several tonnes.
"This exercise involves a dedicated team of 54 experts—veterinarians, species officers, pilots, drivers, and communications officers—working together with trucks, helicopters, and specialized equipment to ensure every step is executed with precision," explained Dr Erustus Kanga, Director General of the Kenya Wildlife Service.
Residents breathed a sigh of relief
"Now we feel relieved, especially since our children couldn't go to school early in the morning for fear of encountering elephants," said one of the residents, quoted by Reuters.
The animals will also find it easier to breathe, as at Aberdare National Park they will have more space and freedom. Mwea authorities assure that the elephants are being relocated with their entire families, and each is equipped with a GPS collar.
