We’re making progress

Over the last decade wildlife populations in Gonarezhou have shown a consistent positive trend, with the Park now harbouring close to 11,000 elephants within it’s 5,000 km2. The Great Elephant Census showed significant elephant population declines in key wildlife areas in Zimbabwe such as Mana Pools and the Sebungwe over the last 10 years, but in contrast during this same period Gonarezhou recorded a 130% increase in its elephants numbers.

At more than 2 elephants/km2 Gonarezhou National Park now has one of the the highest elephant densities on the continent. Predator populations have also shown a recovery, with the endangered wild dog numbering around 200 animals in an estimated 12 packs – these numbers indicate both a healthy prey base as well as reduced poaching pressure from snares and direct persecution.