Image used for representational purposes
Harare, Dec 12 – In a heartbreaking turn of events, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest game reserve, is grappling with the loss of at least 100 elephants due to the El Nino-induced drought, as reported by an international animal welfare and conservation group on Monday.
The ongoing El Nino phenomenon has delayed summer rains by five weeks, intensifying the crisis in Hwange National Park, home to approximately 45,000 elephants, making it Zimbabwe’s largest protected area. The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) issued a statement revealing that dozens of elephants have already perished, with at least 100 reported dead due to the severe lack of water.
The organization highlighted the inadequacy of the 104 solar-powered boreholes in the park to cope with the extreme temperatures that are rapidly drying up existing waterholes. This dire situation forces wildlife, including elephants, to embark on arduous journeys covering long distances in search of food and water.
The loss of these majestic creatures underscores the urgency of addressing the impact of climate-related challenges on wildlife conservation. Conservationists and authorities face the formidable task of implementing effective measures to mitigate the effects of El Nino and ensure the survival of the remaining elephant population in Hwange National Park.
As the international community grapples with the consequences of climate change, this tragic event serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of environmental factors and the delicate balance within ecosystems. The call for increased conservation efforts and sustainable solutions resonates louder than ever in the face of such a profound loss in one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife reserves.
