Spatial distribution and period of activity of the forest elephant (Loxodonta africana cyclotis) at Taï National Park, south western Côte d'Ivoire

A high concentration of forest elephant activity was observed in the southern regions of Taï National Park (TNP), Côte d'Ivoire, with distinct diurnal and nocturnal patterns. Using 87 camera traps deployed systematically over 120 days, researchers documented that solitary elephants were more active during daylight hours, while group activities peaked at night. This spatial distribution may be influenced by the proximity of small, remote settlements, offering insights for park surveillance and conservation strategies. The study highlights the utility of camera traps in monitoring elephant behavior and underscores the need for further research to elucidate the underlying factors driving these patterns.

Kely, M. R., Kouakou, C. Y., Bene, J.-C. K., Koffi, A. D., N’guessan, K. A., & Tiedoue, M. R. (2019). Spatial distribution and period of activity of the forest elephant (Loxodonta africana cyclotis) at Taï National Park, south western Côte d’Ivoire. Journal of Applied Biosciences, 133(1), 13542. https://doi.org/10.4314/jab.v133i1.6