REQUEST FOR URGENT SCIENTIFIC, ETHICAL AND PROCEDURAL JUSTIFICATION FROM EZEMVELO KZN WILDLIFE FOR PROPOSED RELOCATION OF 1050 ELEPHANTS

The EMS Foundation has written to the Chief Operating Officer of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife and the KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs with deep concern regarding the recent reports that KZN Wildlife intends to relocate 1050 elephants from several protected areas within KZN province including Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park, Itala Game Reserve, Mkhuze Game Reserve, Tempe Elephant Park and others.

According to public statements, this intervention is motivated by concerns of “ecological imbalance” and the need to manage growing elephant populations. However these statements appear to rely on broad assertions rather than clearly articulated, peer-reviewed scientific evidence.

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