Rhino and elephant poaching trends in the Selous Game Reserve

Abstract

In 1981 the Selous Game Reserve, the largest in Africa, harboured the largest elephant and black rhino populations on the continent. The elephant population density was calculated to be very similar during 1976 and 1981 surveys. During the seventies, poaching was minimal due to the inaccessibility of the reserve, but construction of Shell Company oil exploration roads beginning in 1981 can be linked with an increased poaching activity in the area. The depressed economic situation of the country coupled with the rising international prices for ivory and rhino horn contributed to poaching. Results of a survey based on interviews with hunters, staff and clients of the Tanzania Wildlife Corporation and Wildlife Divison staff carried out in 1984 are discuss along with reasons for increased poaching and recommendations to remedy the situation.