DNA survey revises critically endangered forest elephant estimate
A new IUCN assessment estimates 135,690 African forest elephants, with a further 7,728 to 10,990 individuals identified from provisional ‘guesses’. The update – using DNA-based methods – revises population figures by 16% compared with 2016 and offers a clearer picture of the species’ status. Despite the uplift in estimates, African forest elephants remain listed as Critically Endangered.
The refined baseline is significant for conservation planning and nature-based tourism across Central and West Africa, helping target anti-poaching, habitat protection and funding. Experts caution the higher figure reflects improved detection rather than a confirmed population rebound, underscoring the need for sustained protection of key forest ecosystems that support both biodiversity and tourism.
Source: IUCN
