Pollution's Impact: The Elephant In The Room

Climate change is a significant threat to the survival of elephants, with all three species—the African savannah elephant, African forest elephant, and Asian elephant—currently endangered or critically endangered. A study by Hannah Mumby from the University of Sheffield found that even slight temperature changes can lower their chances of survival, with calves being the most vulnerable. Climate change impacts elephants' access to water, food, and habitat, and increases the risk of disease and human-wildlife conflict. The need for large amounts of fresh water is a significant concern, influencing their daily activities, reproduction, and migration.

Water scarcity

Habitat Loss and Degradation

Increased Competition for Resources

As water becomes scarce, competition for this vital resource intensifies among wildlife. This can lead to overcrowding in certain areas and increased conflict among species, disrupting feeding patterns and mating rituals, further jeopardizing survival.

Reproductive Challenges

Health and Disease

Limited access to clean water can lead to dehydration and increased vulnerability to diseases in wildlife. As animals congregate around the few remaining water sources, the risk of transmitting pathogens and parasites increases, which can devastate populations.

Behavioural Adjustments

Conservation Efforts

The impact of water scarcity on elephants and other wildlife highlights the importance of conservation efforts and innovative solutions. Technologies like Teva 7, an Atmospheric Water Generation system, can provide sustainable water sources in affected areas, reducing competition for water among wildlife and supporting the restoration of degraded ecosystems.

Heat stroke

Elephants are highly susceptible to heat stroke, which is a severe form of hyperthermia. This occurs when the body's core temperature exceeds the normal range due to excessive environmental heat and humidity. In the case of elephants, this can be caused by rising temperatures due to climate change, which can also cause droughts and disease, further endangering these animals.

Elephants have a large body size and lack sweat glands, so they are particularly vulnerable to heat stress. They have an internal rhythm that helps them maintain a stable internal body temperature, but it is unclear how this will be affected by increasing temperatures. They also use a process called evaporative cooling, which requires ample access to water.

During heatwaves, elephants seek shade, rest more, and increase their wetting behaviour (such as mud bathing and swimming) to regulate their body temperature. They also walk more, possibly due to an instinctive movement towards meeting points for afternoon tourist activities.

The critical temperature threshold for heat stroke varies among species. For mammals, a body temperature of over 40°C (104°F) can be dangerous.

Signs of Heat Stroke in Elephants:

• Increased walking
• Resting more
• Increased wetting behaviour
• Seeking shade

Treatment:

If you encounter an elephant showing signs of heat stroke, you should:

• Move the elephant to a cooler place, such as a shaded or air-conditioned environment.
• Provide water or gently mist the elephant with cool (not cold) water.
• Contact wildlife experts or veterinary clinics for professional assistance.

Poaching

Impact on Elephant Populations

Ecological Consequences

Social and Economic Impacts

Addressing Poaching

To combat poaching, a multifaceted approach is necessary. Law enforcement efforts and increased investment in anti-poaching initiatives are crucial. However, addressing the root causes of poaching, such as poverty and corruption, is essential. Community-based conservation programs that aim to alleviate poverty and provide alternative livelihood opportunities have shown promising results in reducing local poaching rates. Additionally, reducing the demand for ivory through education, awareness, and policy reforms is vital. By addressing these complex issues, we can better protect elephant populations and preserve the ecosystems they inhabit.

Disease

Elephants are susceptible to a range of diseases, some of which are specific to the species, while others are shared with humans. For example, elephants can contract tuberculosis, which affects the lungs and causes chronic weight loss, nasal discharge, coughing, and diminished appetite. They are also vulnerable to intestinal colic, nettle rash, pneumonia, constipation, and even the common cold.

One of the most fatal diseases for elephants is anthrax, a bacterium that causes high fever, shivering, ulcers, and swellings. Anthrax can be spread through contaminated water or soil, and it was found to be a key factor in regulating elephant populations in Tanzania. In addition to anthrax, there are other diseases unique to elephants, such as trunk paralysis and elephant pox.

Climate change and pollution are also contributing factors in the spread of diseases among elephants. For instance, in Botswana, over 300 elephants died due to toxic algal blooms in waterholes, which were exacerbated by the changing climate conditions. This incident highlighted the potential impact of climate-induced diseases on elephant populations.

Furthermore, air pollution can affect the health of elephants by increasing their vulnerability to diseases. Pollutants such as acid rain, heavy metals, and persistent organic compounds can contaminate water sources and soil, leading to the spread of harmful bacteria and toxins. As top-level predators, elephants are susceptible to bioaccumulation, where pollutants increase in concentration as they move up the food chain.

Overall, diseases and population density play a crucial role in naturally regulating elephant populations. Understanding these natural mechanisms is essential for effective elephant conservation and management.

Habitat loss

Deforestation and agriculture result in the loss of biodiversity as many plant species that elephants depend on for food are lost when forests are cleared for farming. This reduction in biodiversity impacts not only elephants but also other wildlife species. Additionally, land conversion for agriculture can disrupt natural water sources, affecting the water availability that elephants need for drinking and bathing. This can further lead to conflicts with human communities.

The expansion of human settlements and infrastructure creates barriers that fragment elephant habitats, isolating populations. This fragmentation hinders the natural movement and migration patterns of elephants, potentially leading to isolated gene pools and reduced genetic diversity. It also increases the risk of human-elephant conflict as elephants may raid crops for sustenance, leading to economic losses and negative perceptions of elephants.

Mining operations can also contribute to habitat degradation, causing soil erosion, habitat degradation, and water source pollution. These environmental changes negatively affect the quality of resources available for elephants, impacting their health and well-being. The noise, vibrations, and disturbances caused by mining and logging machinery can also increase stress levels in elephants, leading to behavioural changes and conflict with other elephant groups.

Overall, habitat loss poses a significant threat to the survival of African elephants, and it is driven by human activities that fragment and degrade their natural habitats. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach involving local communities, governments, and international organizations to ensure the effective conservation of African elephants and their habitats.

Frequently asked questions