We developed a noninvasive method to estimate reproductive and survival parameters for free-ranging African savannah elephants (Loxodonta africana africana) and used these to estimate finite population growth rates. We used published data from 2 populations with known growth rates and birth and survival histories to validate our technique. Based on body measurements, our method yielded estimates of age at first and last calving, calving interval, and age-specific survival rates that were similar to those determined during long-term studies at both Addo Elephant National Park and Amboseli National Park. Our technique generated population data required to estimate population growth rates. The method may be particularly useful where censuses yield imprecise estimates or where long-term population data are unavailable.
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1 April 2008
A Rapid Method to Estimate Population Variables for African Elephants
Sam M. Ferreira,
Rudi J. van Aarde
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Journal of Wildlife Management
Vol. 72 • No. 3
April 2008
Vol. 72 • No. 3
April 2008
age at first calving
calving interval
demography
finite population growth
Loxodonta africana
rapid elephant population assessment (REPA)
survival rate