Elephant numbers rise, water birds plummet in Kenya wildlife census

(Nairobi, Kenya – December 11, 2025) – President William Ruto has released the 2025 National Wildlife Census Report, describing the findings as a “mosaic of wins and urgent conservation emergencies.” The census reveals an encouraging 4% growth in elephant and black rhino populations but highlights troubling declines among other species.

Large carnivores remain vulnerable, with populations recorded at 2,512 lions, 605 cheetahs, and 310 wild dogs. Endangered species such as Grévy’s zebra (2,465), mountain bongo (176), hirola (405), sable antelope (40), and roan antelope (21) face critical threats. The report also documents an 80% decline in waterbird populations across 11 key bird areas. Rangeland buffalo numbers fell by more than 8%, from 41,659 to 27,389. However, the report notes this change may be attributed to seasonality differences between the two counts and survey specifications, rather than an actual decline in buffalo populations.

The census was conducted by the Wildlife Research and Training Institute (WRTI) with support from partners including IFAW. It involved 1,518 flight hours of aerial surveys alongside ground counts, camera traps, and marine assessments. Findings will guide efforts to revitalize 18 dormant national reserves to boost tourism, create jobs, and reduce human–wildlife conflict.

Among its recommendations, the report calls for piloting science-guided game farming and sustainable wildlife utilization models in select community conservancies—a proposal expected to spark debate given past challenges with similar schemes.

Ben Wandago, IFAW Director East Africa, affirmed the organization’s commitment to habitat connectivity, combating wildlife crime, and supporting sustainable livelihoods. “The plight of large carnivores, endangered antelopes, and declining waterbirds challenges us to broaden our focus from species to landscapes. Strengthening community engagement is vital, because it is the people who host this wildlife,” he said.

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Images and a copy of the 2025 National Wildlife Census Report can be downloaded here: https://spaces.hightail.com/space/QitY75DWIt

Press Contacts:

Christina Pretorius
Communications Director, Africa
m: +27 82 330 2558
e: cpretorius@ifaw.org