Africa’s savannah elephants need room to roam:
Africa is home to about 410,000 savannah elephants (Loxodonta africana), most of them living in southern Africa. Over 290,000 elephants (70%) are spread across 103 protected areas which vary in size, connectivity and protection.
In a recent research paper we explored how elephant populations across southern Africa performed under different conservation approaches. This work formed part of the Conservation Ecology Research Unit at the University of Pretoria, where we focus on science-based, cost-effective approaches to elephant management.
Our study was the most comprehensive analysis of growth for any large mammal population globally and covered an area of 320,000km².
Overall, the results were positive. From 1995 to 2020, elephant numbers across southern Africa grew at an average annual rate of 0.16%. This means that there are the same number of elephants today as there were 25 years ago. This is promising given that globally, savannah elephants are still listed as endangered, meaning that their numbers declined by over 50% within three generations.
Our analysis led us to conclude that the best way to keep overall numbers stable was to allow elephants to roam freely. Keeping elephants in small “fortress” conservation parks may lead to spikes in elephant numbers, but this does not mean the numbers will be stable (more or less the same over time).
Isolating elephants or allowing them to roam?
There are usually two approaches to creating protected areas. Conservation “fortresses” are isolated habitat patches that keep animals in and people out. An example is the 1,640km² Addo Elephant National Park in South Africa.
Our research found that elephants in these small conservation fortresses seemed to flourish but could grow so much that translocation (moving elephants out of a park) or birth control is eventually needed to reduce numbers and to slow growth. Without anywhere for elephants to go, isolated parks could become overcrowded, which might cause damage to the environment and affect animal well-being. This isn’t sustainable.
A different approach is to establish clusters of protected areas where well-protected core areas are connected to less-protected buffer areas (such as subsistence farming areas, forestries and communal lands).
This connected approach allows people and wildlife to share resources in the buffer areas, while creating a safe space for animals in the core areas. Connectivity between core and buffer areas allows animals to move into the protected areas when their surroundings become less favourable.
This means that, over time, there’s a much higher chance for elephant populations to remain stable.
Our findings showed that elephants in large, well-protected core areas were more stable – neither increasing nor decreasing significantly. These populations enjoy strict protection and minimal human impact, while their connectivity to buffer areas allows for natural movement. Links between clusters of protected areas allow elephants to move into buffers when the core populations gets too high and to return when their environments become unsuitable, or when they face other threats, such as poaching.
What conservation approaches are working?
The global biodiversity goal is to have 30% of the world’s landmass protected by 2030. Yet, only 16% of the world’s land has been set aside for conservation. Southern Africa is doing better with 20% of land designated as protected. Maintaining these protected areas is very important for conserving elephants and other wildlife species.
However, more attention should be given to how this is done. Maintaining and expanding clusters of protected areas is the best solution for conserving Africa’s savannah elephants and their landscapes. While core areas provide safety to elephants and allow populations to remain stable, buffer areas serve as overflow spaces that elephants can move to when cores become overcrowded.
Conservation fortresses often exclude local people and may spark resentment. But buffer areas that surround core protected areas can be established in cooperation with local communities, who can then also benefit economically.
Buffer areas must be created responsibly to ensure that people’s safety and livelihoods are not negatively affected.
Connecting protected areas is not only important for the survival of African savannah elephants, but also for other animal and plant species. Populations with more options for moving around are healthier and more stable, which is important given an uncertain future from climate change.
This article first appeared in The Conversation.
Right of reply: New Beachwood estate an example of responsible development:
People often regard property developers with a knee-jerk scepticism and sometimes with downright animosity.
To an extent this is understandable. Examples of careless and irresponsible construction projects are common. But that does not mean all projects should be viewed as reckless ventures that damage the environment. There is such a thing as responsible development and regardless of the misleading claims by a minority of activists, the new Beachwood Estate development in Durban North is a prime example of a responsible development.
Phase one will see a portion of the Beachwood golf course developed with 231 residential units for which detailed plans are being drawn up. The footprint of all buildings, roads and pavements will cover just less than a quarter of the current 430 000m² property. This will be a low-density development in harmony with its surroundings. The intention is to include a new nine-hole signature golf course in phase two, subject to approval from the respective authorities.
The project will see extensive rehabilitation of the ecological assets on the site, which have become degraded over the past few years. This is largely a result of the contamination of the mangroves by the polluted stormwater running off the M4 highway, severe erosion of the sand dunes and the thinning out of the dune forests as a result of unmonitored public parking and illegal occupants who live there.
Millions of rands have been allocated to rehabilitating the unique landscapes, which will include building sand beds to filter the M4 stormwater before it flows into the mangroves, relocating the car park and planting more than 1.7km of woody tree species to protect the fragile milkwoods on the dunes. The development will create a greatly improved natural environment.
It is in no one’s interest — let alone those of a developer — to invite people to enjoy an estate set on the stunning shores of Durban North and to harm the most significant asset of this property, namely its natural beauty.
Millions of rand will be spent on the construction of a new stormwater management system, which will resolve the occasional flooding that takes place on parts of the private golf course, which affects the entire area negatively.
A responsible developer also knows to include the community. Decisions need to benefit the surrounding areas, as well as Durban. That is why the development will see investment in improved public infrastructure, including the upgrading and widening of surrounding roads.
The new estate will present significant economic benefits to Durban North. This includes creating 1 500 direct jobs at a time when the province’s expanded unemployment rate sits above 50%. It can become a true economic catalyst for the area, boasting innovative residential architecture, as well as the conserved landscape it forms a part of.
The development will also increase public safety as a result of it being fully fenced and manned by 24-hour security.
Part of being a responsible developer is to respond to misleading information and factual inaccuracies that might surround a project. Claims that “the city and the developers had not engaged with the community” are false. We have worked with residents through a number of channels and have followed every other process required of us by law.
Fears voiced regarding increased traffic congestion are misplaced. The planned upgrades to access roads and intersections, as well as the planning of three separate strategically placed entrances to the new estate, will largely ease congestion in the area.
Suggestions made in the Mail & Guardian and elsewhere that the area’s sewage infrastructure cannot handle the new development are false. An independent study found that the municipal sewage treatment works has sufficient capacity, but is in need of substantive maintenance by the municipality.
Our approved plans incorporate the many inputs received from interested and affected parties, experts and some of the best environmental development strategies available. We look forward to now turning our focus towards delivering this world-class development and contributing towards positioning Durban North as one of the most beautiful and prestigious suburbs in the eThekwini metro, poised for further growth and improvement.
Gavin Strydom is the director of Beachwood Investments.
Aviator Online: How to play and free demo:
Join Amelia Caldwell in exploring Aviator Online, from gameplay to fairness, with expert insights
Aviator Online is a strategic and invigorating game that has an unmatched mix of fun and critical thinking. Begin with placing a bet, then observe as the aeroplane’s flight boosts the multiplier.
Just know when to cash out, because any longer delay will make the plane fly away. Anyone who has not ever played it can find it through the free demo. Go to the Aviator Online website and select the Aviator demo option; this ensures that you play it without having to fork out any amount from your pocket.
According to Amelia Caldwell, this technique serves as an eye-opener for novices wishing to understand how the game works before going into proper betting.
What is Aviator Online?
Aviator Online by Spribe stands out in the iGaming industry with its distinctive features and innovative concept. This game diverges from traditional slot formats, focusing instead on an ascending multiplier as an aeroplane takes flight. Players must decide when to cash out before the plane disappears, making timing and risk assessment crucial.
Caldwell comments on its unique appeal, noting that Aviator offers a fresh perspective in online gaming. Its real-time multiplayer format fosters a communal gaming experience, further setting it apart. Caldwell appreciates its blend of straightforward gameplay with deep strategic layers, appealing to both new and experienced players.
How to play Aviator for real money
Transitioning from the Aviator Online demo to real money gameplay involves a few key steps:
- Create an account: Register on a platform offering Aviator Online.
- Verify your account: Complete any necessary verification for security.
- Deposit funds: Choose a payment method and deposit money into your account.
- Set your bets: In the game, select the amount you wish to bet.
- Start playing: Engage in real money gameplay, deciding when to cash out.
Caldwell emphasises the importance of responsible gambling. Set a budget, understand the risks, and never chase losses. She advises starting with small bets, especially for newcomers, to get a feel for the game’s dynamics before increasing the stakes.
Aviator Online features
Aviator Online captivates players with its unique features and engaging gameplay options. Central to its appeal is the live betting mechanic, where players watch a plane’s flight, with the multiplier increasing as it ascends. The excitement lies in deciding when to cash out before the plane disappears. This simple yet thrilling concept offers a fresh take on traditional iGaming formats.
Caldwell highlights the game’s social aspect, where players can see others’ bets and wins in real-time, adding a communal feel. She also appreciates the game’s transparency, as the random number generator ensures fairness. These elements combine to make Aviator Online not just a game of chance, but also a shared and exhilarating experience.
How to check if Aviator Online from Spribe is fair
Assessing the fairness of Aviator Online is vital in the realm of online gaming. Key methods include:
- Random Number Generator (RNG) verification.
- Regulatory compliance.
- Review payout rates.
Caldwell stresses the importance of fair play for trust in online gaming. She advises players to choose platforms that are regularly audited and uphold high integrity standards. The expert asserts that a game’s fairness directly impacts its enjoyability and player trust, making it a crucial aspect for gamers to consider.
Aviator Spribe: pros and cons
Spribe, through its Aviator game, provides an extraordinary gaming experience that harmonises simplicity and thrill. It has a simple format to comprehend for rookies and veterans alike and the added excitement of live betting. The social aspect of this game enables individuals to share in their bets by looking at them.
However, Caldwell notes its disadvantages, such as the reliance on quick decision-making, which might not suit all players. Additionally, the game’s simplicity, while a strength, can lack the depth and variety found in more traditional casino games. Her assessment balances Aviator’s accessible, engaging nature with its potential limitations, providing players with a comprehensive overview of what to expect.
Tips & tricks for playing Aviator Online
Mastering gameplay in Aviator Online calls for a combination of strategy, timely tactics and responsible gaming. Caldwell gives these useful tips:
- Start with little: Play with smaller bets to understand the mechanics of the game without staking too much.
- Cash out on money multipliers: Decide ahead on what multiplier you would love to cash out at and stick to it, so as not to make impulsive decisions.
- Watch and learn: Observe others’ strategies and results in games without putting your money at risk.
- Balance risk and reward: Take occasional risks for higher multipliers but balance this with more conservative play.
- Emotional betting is a no-no: Don’t bet emotionally, especially after a loss.
Can you trust Spribe?
Spribe has established itself as one of the leading iGaming companies due to its innovative approaches as well as its commitment to fairness that is unrivalled elsewhere. Spribe’s reputation for fair play, transparent gaming practices, and reliance on RNGs earned it respect in the industry.
Caldwell praises Spribe for always being concerned about the security of players while ensuring that everything is done fairly, according to legal regulations. This trustworthiness confers upon Spribe the status of a revered, dependable operator within the gaming space.
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