World Elephant Day and how to help protect them

August 12 International Elephant Day, a key date to raise awareness of the delicate situation of these magnificent mammals, whose population has decreased by more than 60% in recent years, and may become extinct at the end of the next decade.

Why is it important to take care of elephants? Elephants are true ecosystem engineers, they play a key role in the habitats where they live and help maintain the balance of biodiversity in the ecosystems they share with other species.

The aspects that pose the most serious threat to the survival of elephants are:

Poaching

Every year some 30,000 elephants are killed for their ivory. 90% of their species is being hunted both in Africa and Asia (an estimated 96 elephants a day).

The loss of their habitat

Due to deforestation, several elephants lose their home, their food and everything they need to live and are affected by this action.

Trade in live elephants (especially baby elephants) for entertainment

The conditions of capture and transport of elephants are cruel and, on the other hand, their natural needs cannot be satisfied.

Ways to protect elephants:

Adopt an orphan

In Africa, many baby elephants are orphaned because their mothers are illegally hunted every day. They, like us, cannot live without the necessary care, that is why the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT), restrains them, takes care of them and helps them to rehabilitate so that they can return to their habitat. You can adopt elephants, rhinos or giraffes and help them to return to their habitat.

Elephants develop strong emotional bonds with their young.

Do not buy

It seems simple but it is a great way to help if we do not buy ivory, these poachers will stop hunting them because they are no longer selling.

Do not buy ivory objects, animal skins, medicines that contain animal derivatives, or any product that contains palm oil. Look for those that are certified as sustainable, so you will avoid destroying their habitat in order to obtain the oil from the trees.

Do not support the exploitation of these animals

It is very important that if you visit countries like Thailand you do not get on an elephant for a walk or go to places that force them to do tricks. By doing so, you contribute to keeping them in captivity and in poor condition.

Instead it supports the organizations that are in charge of helping orphans and rescuing them and helping them to improve and then return to their habitat where they belong and are free.

Promote education

Inform yourself and promotes the message and teaches people that elephants like any other animal have the right to live and feelings.

Sign petitions and save the elephants of Asia

Not only in Africa is the life of elephants threatened, also in Asia and to a great extent. Sign petitions that you can find asking for help and action for the elephants.

Donate your time

If you live in Africa or Asia and you can go to help elephants in organizations where they help and rescue them, do it, take advantage of that opportunity you have to help them.