Habitat Loss

The biodiversity of the Greater Mara Ecosystem is facing several threats. Studies suggest that the best approach to conservation of biodiversity is not only through conservation of plant and animal species, but also through conservation of habitats. Moreover, experience shows that the best way to conserve species is through protection of their critical habitats.

Thorsten Hanewald Photography

Elephants play a key role in structuring habitats and no habitats are more important to Kenya’s well-being than its forests, which often act as the water tower for key rivers and lakes in Kenya. MEP’s ability to protect elephants in the Mau, Loita and Nyakweri forests will directly help protect this important habitat.

"The Mau Forest is at the head of the entire water shed for the Mara and the Mara River, which is the primary water source for the ecosystem."

Director of Research and Conservation Dr. Jake Wall
Mau Forest Patrol

"This area is a pristine rainforest, the Mara River almost stopped flowing in 2019, because the Mau is being destroyed. All the millions of wildebeest and all other life here in the Mara depend on the Mara River. If that’s destroyed there will be no Mara ecosystem."

CEO Marc Goss

The growth of human populations and the associated habitat loss means free ranging areas for elephants and other wildlife are becoming increasingly rare and a key threat is deforestation. This includes illegal logging, charcoal production and conversion of land for agriculture and livestock.

As wildlife habitat is lost, biodiversity is also lost.

In 2020, MEP recorded the highest level of habitat destruction in a decade.