ENSURING THE LONG-TERM SECURITY OF THE ELEPHANT POPULATION OF GONAREZHOU NATIONAL PARK, ZIMBABWE

The purpose of this project is to promote the long-term recovery of an important elephant population in Zimbabwe, including expansion into adjacent safari hunting areas and cross-border corridors.

The elephants of Gonarezhou National Park, most recently estimated at more than 10,000 individuals, are part of the Greater Limpopo transfrontier population that extends into Mozambique and South Africa.

In contrast to other neighboring sites, the documented number of poached elephants has been declining in Gonarezhou as anti-poaching effort has increased.

Aerial survey and elephant collaring data indicate, however, that elephants are remaining within the safety of park boundaries and are not expanding into adjacent areas of available habitat.

This project attempts to change that dynamic by maintaining anti-poaching pressure where park management has been successful and.working towards greater security in adjoining wildlife areas in Zimbabwe and neighboring Mozambique.

Specific activities include: (1) operational support for park rangers, including foot and vehicle patrols, basic equipment, improvements to the radio network, vehicle support, and anti-poaching infrastructure development along the Zimbabwe-Mozambique border.