African Forest Elephants 2026: The Silent Crisis of a Critically Endangered Icon
The African forest elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis) stands at a perilous crossroads. As of early 2026, while new DNA-based census techniques have revealed slightly higher numbers than previously estimated, the species remains "Critically Endangered" on the IUCN Red List. This article delves deep into the shadows of the illegal wildlife trade, the economics of poaching, and the ethical battle for the survival of these "gardeners of the forest." The Current State of African Forest Elephants in 2026 Recent data from the 2024-2025 status reports, consolidated in early 2026, suggests a population estimate of approximately 135,690 to 145,000 individuals . While this is a 16% upward revision from 2016 figures, conservationists warn that this is not a sign of recovery. Instead, it is the result of improved tracking technology, particularly DNA sampling from dung, which allows researchers to "see" through the dense canopy of the Congo Basin. ...