In an article for the BBC News website, the former head of the Kenyan Wildlife Service says culling is “a necessary part of population management”. But Dr Leakey says there is also a responsibility to curb human activities that impinge on elephant habitat.
South Africa plans to allow culling after a gap of 14 years because of growing numbers of elephants. The population is estimated to have expanded from 8,000 to 18,000 in little more than a decade.
In some parts of the country, people have complained that the animals are dangerous, and that they eat crops and drink water intended for the human population.
The South African plan lists culling as a last resort, with measures such as better management of elephant enclosures, translocation, and contraception examined first.
Dr Leakey says, “Though I find elephant culling repugnant, I can see the sense in it (in some scenarios).”
The South African management plan sees culling becoming an option from 1st May.
Are there no other options? Contraception? Relocation?
When they have completed the cull, what will they do with all that ivory hmm?
Relocation is on their options list.
> Contraception? Durex plc are doubtful.
Get all the teenage elephant cows on the pill then. It will help control their acne as well.
Do you think? I’ll contact the SA embassy with your idea. Wonder what flavour elephants like …
http://www.elephantcare.org/culling.htm
They’re working on long-term contraceptive vaccines
Thanks Pete
Here’s the full brochure
Interesting to see contraception as a method of control is being used on several types of animal. Some would say, we’re playing God. But it’s certainly better than a shot to the head.