Research - Objectives

Research with Respect for Elephants,
Wildlife and the Environment

Tsavo elephant research began in 1989. It is a non-interference research project monitoring the behavior of elephants in Tsavo. The majority of the research is based on a core group of known individuals - many of whom have been known for 15 years. Each adult individual has a file in the database; photograph, sightings, associations, musth cycles, offspring: birth date, sex and survival.

Photographic identification of distinct features are used to track known individuals; Tusks: broken, curved, splayed, only one, tuskless; Ears: broken, tattered, notches, holes; Tail: twisted, no hair, 2-hairs, section missing; Trunk: growths, section missing, tip missing; Body: growths, scars, broken leg. In addition, a database on available water resources, natural and artificial, is maintained.

Social Dynamics of Tsavo Bulls

The current research is focused on mature bulls (older than 30 years of age) and their behavior related to other elephants and the habitat.

Objectives

Known Bulls

Update bull database: sightings, identification photograph, features and health.

Grouping Patterns

Determine bull seasonal social structure, group size and age: bulls that are alone, with other bulls or with families (identification of adult females and the age and sex of her offspring).

Bull Group Behavior

Collect data on groups of bulls and their interactions; associations between bulls, leaders-followers, body language, dominance and tactile and vocal communication.

Reproductive Status

Monitor musth cycles; frequency, duration and season.

Ranging Patterns

Determine bull seasonal habitat and water utilization. Map their movement and range. Investigate the impact of climate change on their distribution and movements.

Human Impact

Monitor the impact of tourism, fires, poaching, snares and livestock encroachment on the habitat and elephant behavior.