The Sumatran elephant (Elephas maximus sumatranus) faces grave threats. With an estimated population of just around 2,400 adults left in the wild, habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict continue to push this majestic species to the brink. In conservation efforts, bioacoustic technology has emerged as an innovative tool to monitor elephants discreetly, without disturbing their natural behaviors.

In early 2024, I deployed solar-powered acoustic monitoring devices deep in the Sumatran forest. These devices record elephant sounds – from warning trumpets to heavy footsteps – to help map their movements and detect their approach to local farms. Yet, I quickly realized that technology alone isn’t enough.

Trust from local communities is key. The forest is not empty; it is home to small communities of loggers, rattan gatherers, and shifting cultivators who live alongside wildlife. Initially, some devices went missing, signaling that community engagement and communication needed strengthening.

Through a human-centered approach – introducing myself as a fellow inhabitant of the forest and building genuine trust – perceptions of the technology changed. Community support kept the devices intact and functioning without constant supervision.

Sociological studies of community conservation emphasize that long-term success depends heavily on active local participation. This approach fosters a strong sense of ownership over conservation efforts.

Now, these bioacoustic devices serve as electronic ears, detecting elephant movements and providing early warnings to villagers – helping to reduce human-wildlife conflict. But none of this would be possible without the support and understanding of the surrounding communities.

The most important lesson I bring back is that before technology can save elephants, we must first build relationships between people, based on goodwill and trust.

Together, let’s protect the forest’s voice and the future of the Sumatran elephant.

#SaveSumatranElephant #WWFIndonesia #ConservationTogether