Recent translocation of elephant family units from Sweetwaters Rhino Sanctuary to Meru National Park, Kenya

Abstract

This paper focuses on the ninth, most recent, and largest elephant translocation, project undertaken in Kenya since KWS began transferring animals in 1996. 56 animals, 51 of which lived to be released, were translocated from Sweetwaters Rhino Sanctuary to Meru NP. The free ranging 'elephants were monitored for four months to identify animals to be moved'. From the total of 140 elephants individually identified 56, comprising 9 family units and 9 bulls, were identified for relocation. The paper notes the rationale for the pre-translocation monitoring, outlines the procedures followed by personnel in the helicopter and ground teams during the darting and anaesthesia regime, and the subsequent work involved in the loading, transportation and release of the animals. The animals were translocated in July 2001 during 12 capture operations conducted over a period of 22 days. Six animals were fitted with radio collars. Post-release monitoring involved both ground and aerial monitoring. To date it appears that the majority of the animals have settled close to the point of release and range within the Meru ecosystem.