September 9th, 2009
The drought afflicting Kenya at present is having a serious effect on the country’s elephants, in addition to the Kenyan population, 3.8 million of whom are are at risk and need emergency food aid.
Zoologist Iain Douglas-Hamilton, who founded Save the Elephants, said the drought is the worst he has seen in 12 years and poses a serious threat to the large and majestic animals. “”It may be related to climate change, and the effect is elephants, particularly the young and the old, have began to die”.
Associated Press
Elephants are not endangered in Kenya, which supports a population of 23,000, and fewer than 100 have died from the drought — but wildlife experts say they are concerned, and are hoping seasonal rains come this October and November.
See also:
Severe drought hits Kenya
Africa nature, Kenya nature | Tags: Drought in Kenya, Elephants, Elephants in Kenya, Environmental issues in East Africa, Environmental issues in Kenya, Wild animals of Kenya|