Impact Of Drought And Development On The Effectiveness Of Beehive Fences As Elephant Deterrents Over 9 Years In Kenya
Conservation Science and Practice
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Abstract: This longitudinal study evaluates the effectiveness of beehive fences over nine years in Kenya?s Sagalla community near Tsavo East National Park. Analyzing more than 3,900 elephant interactions, the researchers report an average deterrence success rate of 86.3%. However, extreme drought events and land-use changes reduced effectiveness over time. Development projects like the Standard Gauge Railway disrupted migratory corridors, increasing human?wildlife conflict. In addition to physical performance, the study examines community perceptions and the dual benefit of honey production. Seasonal variations, crop types, and landscape transformations shaped fence success. The research supports scaling ecological infrastructure integrated with community livelihoods. Participatory methods and robust longitudinal data lend credibility and depth to the findings. The study emphasizes that sustainable coexistence between humans and elephants requires both behavioral insight and climate-resilient design. It also underscores the necessity of embedding adaptation solutions within broader land-use and conservation frameworks.