| High concentrations were noted in areas near big rivers and in low lying areas, especially in the eastern and north-central regions of Tabin. Subsequent to 1996 Dr. Annelisa Kilbourn and a wildlife ranger team relocated 14 elephants in a program that led to the refinement of capture and tranquilization techniques. The elephants were genetically tested before release. Analyses revealed that the species is indigenous to Borneo. This put to rest a long-standing controversy. The WWF is developing a large mammal management plan with emphasis on elephants and rhinos for Tabin Wildlife Reserve and the establishment of a Conflict Working Group (CWG) to handle human-elephant conflicts at Tabin. This includes the creation of an ecotourism plan with a marketing strategy to use elephants in selected sites to promote the conservation of wild elephants. WWF, SOS Rhino, SZG and other cooperating agencies are assisting the JHL in implementing programs that will secure the Tabin Wildlife Reserve's elephant and rhino populations for the long-term. Conservation of both species is being grounded in the necessary research, population monitoring, habitat preservation and buffer zone management. |
