“Elephants are one of the most important agents. Their activities generally increase the overall biological diversity of a region. Conserving elephants becomes much more than an issue about how to protect a single great species. It is about protecting one of the forces that shapes ecosystems and helps sustain the wealth of wildlife found across much of the continent. It is about saving the creative power of nature.” -Douglas Chadwick.
The number of elephants is decreasing rapidly. In the 1930’s, there was 7-10 million. Now there is only 300,000 elephants (www.soselephants.org). Ivory seeking poachers have killed 100,000 African Elephants in just three years. One of every 12 were killed. The population has declined 64% in a decade (www.news.nationalgeographic.com).
Elephants play a key role in the African landscape. They maintain the balance of all other species in the community. They pull down trees and break up bushes, making the land more sustainable for other species to live. Elephant's tracks make deep imprints, allowing water to collect in them. Their trails make fire breakers and a place for water to run off (www.soselephants.org).
Poaching is the illegal taking of plants or animals or parts of plants or animals. About 30,000 - 38,000 elephants are poached every year for ivory. If we don’t put an end to these illegal activities, elephants will be extinct in 15 - 20 years (www.soselephants.org).
