Zimbabwe to Cull 50 Elephants Amid Drought

Zimbabwe has authorized the culling of at least 50 elephants in the Save Valley Conservancy, citing overpopulation, drought, and increased human-wildlife conflict. The region currently hosts about 2,550 elephants, far surpassing its carrying capacity of 800. Meat from the culled elephants will be distributed to local communities, while ivory will be confiscated and held by the state due to a global trade ban. Over the past five years, 200 elephants have been relocated to other reserves, but authorities maintain culling is necessary for ecosystem balance. The move has been criticized for its potential impact on tourism, although officials argue it is justified by environmental pressures. Previous culls, including a major one in 2024, were also attributed to drought-induced food shortages.