Elephant Research & Advocacy
At Bring The Elephant Home, our mission extends beyond conservation—we are committed to conducting scientific research that informs evidence-based policies and conservation strategies for elephant well-being. A key part of our work involves collaborating with governments, conservation organisations, and researchers to support elephant populations.
Scientific Research
Our research aims to understand the behavioural, ecological, and social needs of elephants to ensure their long-term survival in both protected and expanding habitats. We also explore how elephant conservation aligns with societal aspirations, community attitudes, and the diverse values attributed to elephants, while advancing integrated coexistence strategies that benefit elephants, people, and the environment.
Our key research areas include:
- The impact of range expansion on elephant movement, behaviour, stress levels, and social structures.
- The ecological role of elephants in shaping landscapes and supporting biodiversity.
- Ethical monitoring practices, assessing the effects of different techniques on elephant well-being and identifying safer alternatives.
- The diverse values of elephants—intrinsic, instrumental, relational, and moral.
- The social dimensions of elephant conservation, including community perceptions and human-elephant interactions.
- Global conservation and coexistence strategies, contributing to evidence-based policy development in elephant range countries.
Through interdisciplinary research, we aim to develop conservation solutions that are scientifically sound, ethically responsible, and socially inclusive.
Government Consultation & Policy Development
We work closely with government agencies, policymakers, and protected area managers to integrate scientific research into wildlife management policies. Our expertise helps guide:
- The development of South Africa’s National Elephant Heritage Strategy
- Elephant research priorities through reports created for the National Elephant Research Strategy of South Africa
- Task Team member of the Wildlife Wellbeing Forum for South Africa
Social empowerment
BTEH aims to foster human-elephant coexistence across Africa by promoting inclusive, community-driven conservation. Our work focuses on:
- Enhancing education and awareness to support the transition toward inclusive conservation and coexistence.
- Engaging local communities through workshops, questionnaires, and interviews, ensuring their voices shape conservation strategies.
- Creating equitable, sustainable, and ethical pathways for communities to benefit from conservation efforts.
Join Our Efforts
- You can join one of our elephant research programs and conduct on-the-ground research with us!
- We are actively seeking research partners, government collaborators, and donors to support this vital work. By funding scientific studies and range expansion initiatives, we can ensure elephants have the space and protection they need to thrive.
- Get involved in our mission and help shape the future of elephant conservation!