Celebrate Elephants on World Elephant Day 2018!

On August 12th, the world comes together to celebrate elephants. A day dedicated to officially recognize the beauty as well as the plight of these magnificent beings. One year has passed since #WorldElephantDay 2017. In the news, there has been sparks of hope as well as some setbacks. Consequently making 2018 a year to remember for the elephants. Moreover, the recent legislative wave sweeping the ivory trade across the globe gives a promising look into what the future can hold…

In the News

There is much to report regarding the ups & downs of elephant news over the past year. Across the world, people are realizing their impact on elephants. This gives us many reasons to celebrate elephants this World Elephant Day. For example, we’re continuing to see a decline in animal abuse/exploitation with company closures like the Ringling Bro’s Circus in 2016. New York City also recently banned the use of exotic animals in entertainment.

Furthermore, beehive fences and solar powered light fences are being used to help mitigate the human-elephant conflict in Africa to protect community crops and the wildlife. Overall, positive steps like this strengthen elephant protection and give hope for a better future for elephants. Additionally, more countries are joining in the fight to save the species through legislative change. Here is a recap of some elephant news over the past year…

Elephant News : A Year in Review 

• November 2017, The United States reversed a previous ban to allow elephant “trophy” imports from Zimbabwe and Zambia. In early 2018, they announced imports would be determined on a case-by-case basis.
• December 2017, China officially banned all commerce of ivory. Exceptions exist for specific “antique ivory”.
• January 2018, Hong Kong announced plans to implement a ban on ivory trade by 2021.
• April 2018, the U.K. announced a ban on ivory trade.
• April 2018, Taiwan announced plans to implement a ban on ivory trade by 2020.
• April 12, 2018:  The world lost the inspirational Dr. Dame Daphne Sheldrick  – wildlife conservationist & pioneer of an orphan elephant rehabilitation organization, The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. She and her family have saved hundreds of Africa’s beautiful elephants and wildlife. She left behind a legacy that will live on forever.

Save elephants so we can ALWAYS celebrate elephants!

There is one goal of World Elephant Day… to raise awareness and save elephants. With the support of wildlife conservationists and animal lovers all over the world, elephants are being given a chance to live and thrive in their natural habitats. However, the struggle is on-going and the pressures are coming from all sides. We use this day to celebrate elephants but also to bring about change for them…

Check out these easy-to-read lists to be a part of saving elephants! 

Capture Africa Tours : Fight for Elephants (easy to read list)

WorldElephantDay.org : Things you can do