Spatial and Seasonal Patterns of African Savannah Elephant (Loxodonta africana) Habitat Use in an East African Multiuse Landscape

Abstract

Understanding the spatial and seasonal distribution of African savannah elephants (Loxodonta africana) is critical for conservation and human–elephant conflict (HEC) mitigation in multiuse landscapes. This study assessed African savannah elephant habitat use around Lake Jipe in southern Kenya, across protected and unprotected areas. Using dung density as an index of African savannah elephant presence, systematic quadrant surveys were conducted in three habitat zones during both wet and dry seasons. Environmental variables, including vegetation structure and forage quality, were also evaluated to explore ecological drivers of distribution. Dung densities were consistently higher in protected areas, suggesting a preference for secure habitats. Fewer dung piles were recorded in the dry season than in the wet season, indicating possible seasonal dispersal. African savannah elephant presence declined with increasing distance from the lake, suggesting a strong attraction to lake-associated habitats. Vegetation structure differed across zones; protected areas supported higher grass cover, while unprotected areas showed greater woody species diversity, likely reflecting varied land use. However, no distinct ecological separation was found between zones, indicating localised or anthropogenic factors may influence habitat use. These findings highlight the ecological importance of both land types and suggest that effective management may benefit from spatially adaptive, seasonally informed strategies.