Evaluating Health and Conservation Consequences of Hybrid African Elephants

African forest and savanna elephants now are categorized as two distinct species; in the past they were both referred to as African elephants. Due to shrinking populations and habitats, forest and Savana elephants are found living in shared habitats leading to offspring of interbreeding. Little is known about the health of forest and forest-savanna elephants. Researchers will compare health profiles among African savanna, forest and hybrid offspring living in Kibale National Park, Uganda. Findings will be used to inform species-specific conservation strategies that will benefit these distinct elephant species and hybrids.