African elephant numbers are increasing, and the risk of extinction is decreasing.

Good news for the African forest elephants, a species considered critically endangered: their population has increased to 135 thousand specimens, an increase of 16 percent compared to the last estimate made in 2016 by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

What is the reason for this growth? In recent years, some conservation initiatives have begun to show positive results, especially in African countries where more effective protection programs have been implemented, such as the strengthening of laws against poaching, educating local communities and improving management of natural parks. Thus, in some African regions, increased protection measures have led to a recovery of the elephant population.

An excellent result, although it is still too early to claim victory and consider African elephants no longer an endangered species. The underlying problems remain, such as the continued loss of habitat due to agriculture, deforestationand urban expansion. And above all, poaching for ivory. 

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