New DNA-Based Survey Reveals 135,690 African Forest Elephants in 2024 Report

Published on November 27, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

In an important new development, the African Forest Elephant population has been assessed with greater accuracy than ever before. The 2024 African Forest Elephant Status Report, released during the 20th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES Cop20), estimates a population of 135,690 individuals. This report marks the first comprehensive species-wide assessment of the African Forest Elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis) since its separation from the African Savanna Elephant (Loxodonta africana) in 2021. Thanks to cutting-edge DNA-based techniques, scientists have greatly improved the accuracy of their assessments, offering new insights into the status of this critically endangered species.

Revolutionary DNA-Based Methods for Elephant Population Estimation

The groundbreaking methods used in this new report combine DNA capture-recapture techniques with older data and new survey efforts. These innovations have drastically improved the reliability of the population estimates. DNA capture-recapture involves collecting dung samples from elephants and identifying the unique genetic “fingerprints” of individuals. By comparing initial “captures” with later “recaptures,” scientists can calculate the population size with far greater precision. This innovative approach has boosted the percentage of reliable population data from 53% in 2016 to an impressive 94% in 2024, ensuring a far more accurate estimate of the African Forest Elephant population.

Improved Methods Yield Higher Elephant Population Estimates

The 2024 report estimates that there are now 135,690 African Forest Elephants in total, a 16% increase from the previous 2016 estimate. However, it is important to note that this increase is due to the improved methods rather than a genuine population surge. The advanced DNA methods have led to more precise counting, allowing scientists to better track the elusive species across its vast, fragmented habitats. Despite the more optimistic estimate, Dr. Fiona Maisels of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) warns that these elephants remain critically endangered, having suffered a staggering 86% decline between 1984 and 2015.

Conservation Successes: Where African Forest Elephants Are Found

The new population estimates also offer hope for conservation efforts. Gabon, where the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) is leading a significant effort toward peaceful human-elephant coexistence, is home to 66% of the remaining African Forest Elephants. The Republic of Congo is also a crucial habitat for the species, hosting an additional 19% of the total population. These two countries play a vital role in the survival of this species, with ongoing conservation initiatives focused on reducing human-elephant conflict and protecting their habitats from deforestation and poaching.

Threats to the African Forest Elephant: Poaching and Habitat Loss

Despite some positive conservation efforts, African Forest Elephants still face significant threats. Poaching, though decreasing since 2018, remains a serious issue, particularly in West and Central Africa. Elephant tusks are valuable, and illegal hunting continues to threaten the species. Additionally, the rapid expansion of mining, infrastructure, and agriculture in elephant habitats is causing severe fragmentation of the forests where these elephants live. As human activity increases, so too does the risk of conflict between elephants and local communities, as well as further habitat loss. These challenges remain formidable obstacles to the species’ recovery.

The Role of African Forest Elephants in Their Ecosystem

African Forest Elephants are more than just an iconic species; they are vital players in their ecosystem. As “forest gardeners,” these elephants play an essential role in tree seed dispersal. By feeding on various fruits, they help spread seeds across vast areas of forest, promoting biodiversity and maintaining the health of their habitat. Without these elephants, the forests would lose a crucial element in their regeneration process. This highlights the importance of protecting these elephants, not only for their intrinsic value but also for the broader ecological health of Africa’s forests.

DNA-Based Surveys Provide Unprecedented Conservation Opportunities

Thanks to the DNA-based survey methods, conservationists now have a clearer, more accurate picture of where to focus their efforts. The data from the 2024 African Forest Elephant Status Report will help guide conservation strategies, ensuring resources are directed to the regions where they are needed most. Dr. Grethel Aguilar, Director-General of the IUCN, emphasized the unprecedented opportunity to now focus efforts on key areas with the most reliable data available. By understanding the true extent of the population and its distribution, conservationists can work more effectively to protect these endangered elephants.

A Call to Action: Protecting African Forest Elephants for Future Generations

The African Forest Elephant may be facing immense challenges, but with the new insights provided by DNA-based survey methods, there is hope for the future. The species remains critically endangered, but conservation actions, when combined with the latest scientific data, offer a real chance for recovery. It is crucial for governments, conservation organisations, and local communities to continue working together to reduce poaching, protect habitats, and promote peaceful coexistence between humans and elephants. The 2024 African Forest Elephant Status Report gives us the most accurate picture yet of these majestic creatures, offering a pathway toward their conservation and long-term survival.

Conclusion: The Future of African Forest Elephants

The African Forest Elephant’s future depends on a coordinated global effort to combat poaching, habitat loss, and human-elephant conflict. With the most accurate population estimate to date, conservationists can now focus their efforts more effectively on preserving the species. DNA-based methods have provided an unprecedented level of insight into the population, giving scientists and conservationists a powerful tool in the fight to save these elusive creatures. With continued focus and support, there is hope for African Forest Elephants to thrive once again in their natural habitats across Africa.