Elephant Response Team members observe an elephant feeding near a military base. Livingstone, Zambia.
In Livingstone, Zambia, a succession of failed rainy seasons and human encroachment onto land traditionally used by elephants have led to a rapid increase in human-wildlife conflict over the past few years. During the dry season, elephants enter Livingstone in search of food, raiding gardens, vegetable patches, and fruit trees. When harassed and startled by residents, these interactions can become dangerous. In 2024, at least eleven people were killed by elephants in the town. The three-person Elephant Response Team, a volunteer group, works to keep people and elephants safe. Although the job is demanding and dangerous, the team is motivated by their love for their community and for elephants.
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