Elephant are vitally important in an ecosystem. They transport hundreds of tree seeds via their dung when they migrate which improves reforestation and vegetation efforts. They open the landscape which allows access to softer grasses for grazers and browsers. They also push down trees and make the leaves available to other animals. These are just a few of the incredible benefits elephant can bring to a landscape. So, elephants are vital in any rewilding effort.
As well as this, as precious landscapes and resources become more sought after by both wildlife and humans, competition can lead to conflict. Translocation offers a fantastic solution to this issue by moving animals like these elephants into wilder areas where they have more freedom to roam and thrive, without the dangers associated with human-wildlife conflict.
Living in protected areas such as the Zinave National Park also means the elephant are more protected from poachers.
So, it’s a win-win situation for all.