RHCRU works to facilitate research to help create a better, brighter future for elephants & conservation across Africa. The seven elephants at Adventures with Elephants are involved in numerous research projects that benefit the entire species as well as humanity.
RESEARCH AREAS
ELEPHANT DNA
DATABASE
We are creating a DNA database of the South African elephant population to safeguard the future of the species
ELEPHANT SCENT
DETECTION
Current research focuses on tracking, search and rescue, anti-poaching, disease detection, and contraband detection.
ELEPHANT DUNG ENDOCRINOLOGY
Working with elephant dung is the most practical way of collecting information and insights about an animal’s endocrine system without disturbing the animal.
ELEPHANT WELFARE
IN CAPTIVITY
RHCRU not only conducts research studies on nutrition, health, and behavior of captive animals, but also works with zoos and other facilities to create enrichment and training programs.
ELEPHANT MILK
FORMULA
RHRCU are assisting in finding the correct milk formula to help feed orphaned elephants.
ENVIRONMENTAL
PROTECTION
RHCRU supports research aimed at determining factors influencing wild elephants’ feed choices.
HUMAN-ELEPHANT
CONFLICT MITIGATION
Our research aims to find win-win solutions to reducing conflict between rural communities and wild elephants.
URBAN & RURAL
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
RHCRU is involved with community conservation programs and a number of school outreach educational projects.
We want to foster an environment of collaboration among experts, fuelled by the common passion to conserve wildlife. Our vision is to collaborate with individuals & organizations to conduct effective conservation and research projects on the ground, thereby holistically addressing the problems associated with having wildlife.
Latest News
When your dad brings home an elephant
One family’s mission to save Africa’s elephants by giving them a home. Source: Inside Africa
Saving elephants by crossing borders
How one farmer and his family moved an entire animal reserve from Zimbabwe to South Africa. Source: Inside Africa
Getting up close and casual with elephants
A unique animal reserve in South Africa educates visitors through a hands-on elephant adventure. Source: Inside Africa
Elephant Care Fund
The Coronavirus pandemic has caused large cancellations in booked tours and travel to the region as a whole. We completely understand the desire not to travel right now and we fully support it. The large scale cancellation of visits to the region is resulting in us looking at ways to keep feeding our elephants and ensuring that none of our staff lose their jobs. We are asking you to consider making a small donation to help save our Visitor Centre and support our elephants through this tough time!