In September 2009, ATE and KWS started a quarterly ground wildlife count in Amboseli National Park and Kimana Sanctuary. The long term monitoring program aims to better understand how wildlife use the park and the surrounding core areas. Results of the September count reveal the severe impacts of the current drought. Grass in the perennial swamps, a lifeline of the park had been depleted following influx of wildlife (grazers) into the park. Over 10,000 zebras and wildebeest had sought refuge in the park, with a substantial number dying. Out of the 1500 Amboseli elephants, only 209 were recorded within Amboseli National Park, an unusual phenomena during the dry season. The rest were out in search of pasture in the surrounding community land and in Tanzania. Unable to cope with the long distance treks, some of the young calves left behind had succumbed to the drought. In the grim of the situation, “new” water is beginning to appear in the park, a welcome to the much anticipated short rains.

We thank the management of Serena and Oltukai Lodge, and Kimana Sanctuary for their support during the count.