Elephant status
Elephant Range in Kenya
The total elephant range in Kenya expanded from 107,113 km² in 2007 to 130,725 km² in 2016. This growth, covering approximately 22% of Kenya’s land area, was due to improved survey coverage and the inclusion of previously unassessed areas.
Kenya's elephant population is distributed across thirteen ecological units, spanning both protected areas and community lands. These units form five major elephant ranges:
- South East Range – Tsavo, Chyulu, Amboseli, and Kilimanjaro
- South West Range – Nguruman and Maasai Mara
- Central & North Range – Aberdares, Mt. Kenya, Laikipia, Samburu, Marsabit, and Meru
- North West Range – Nasolot, Rimoi, and Kerio Valley
- North East Coastal Range – Lamu District and Tana River system
The size of these ranges was estimated using various survey methods with data of different levels of reliability.
Elephant Population Status and Trends
Kenya’s elephant population has grown significantly, from around 16,000 in 1990 to 36,280 in 2021. The growth rate varied across different ranges.
This increase is the result of dedicated conservation efforts by the Kenyan government and its partners, despite challenges such as:
- Expanding human population
- Infrastructure development
- Agricultural expansion
- Habitat fragmentation
- Increased livestock grazing
Between 1989 and 2012, the elephant population grew rapidly, averaging 5.3% per year, reaching 35,588 elephants in 2012. After 2014, the growth rate slowed, with numbers stabilizing between 32,214 in 2014 and 36,280 in 2021.
Population estimates were obtained through various survey methods, including:
- Aerial counts in savannahs
- Dung density surveys in forests
- Individual registration
These combined efforts have contributed to sustaining and protecting Kenya’s elephant population.