Kruger National Park Elephants too Successful

The elephant population in South Africa's Kruger National Park has grown steadily since the turn of the 20^th century, when only about 50 of them inhabited all of South Africa. Now numbering over 14,000 and increasing by around a thousand animals per year, the elephants are threatening the vegetation and water supply that supports other rare species in the park. Officials estimate that the park can sustain only around 7,000 elephants. A cull of 7,000 to 10,000 animals is being considered.

The last cull in 1994 caused such a public outcry that the government banned culls of the species. Similar reaction is expected if a new cull is announced. Officials agree that a cull will be necessary to preserve biodiversity in the park and want the public to understand the difficult decision.

Link: 10,000 Elephants Facing Slaughter to Protect Trees from the Times Online

Posted by Eric La Fountaine at 11:40 AM on September 22, 2005