Wilderness explorer and filmmaker Ryan Davy stumbled upon the last surviving elephant cow in Knysna Forests, known as Oupoot, the Matriarch, or Strangefoot. After years of rumors and blurry surveillance footage, Davy embarked on a 12-week search to find this elusive figure.
Importance of Elephants in the Ecosystem
Elephants play a crucial role in the ecosystem by clearing thick vegetation, fostering new life, and allowing light to reach the forest floor. Without them, the ecosystem suffers, as is currently the case in Knysna Forests. Davy aimed to raise awareness about the importance of a herd of elephants in the area and alleviate the loneliness of the solitary female elephant, as social interaction is crucial to the species.
Encounter with Oupoot
After covering 15 to 20 kilometers daily and trekking during full moon nights, Davy finally encountered Oupoot up close. Rather than causing panic, Davy chose to let her slip away silently to avoid any potential harm she might inflict upon herself while fleeing. Davy was in awe of Oupoot’s magnificence and recognized the importance of her survival.
Advocating for Restoration of the Ecosystem
Davy advocates for the reintroduction of a herd of elephants to the Knysna Forests’ ecosystem, much like the successful reintroduction of wolves in Yellowstone National Park. This reintroduction would help control the overgrowth of invasive species and restore balance to this natural haven.
Criticism by SANParks
Although SANParks criticized Davy’s tracking methods, they confirmed that his pictures indeed showed the elusive Knysna elephant. SANParks prefers non-invasive tracking methods, using remote cameras to monitor the elephant’s movements without disturbing her. However, they are open to discussions with Davy about the best approach moving forward.
