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Angola's 'Ghost Elephants' Emerge from Myth to Reality
11 Mar
Summary
- Mythical 'ghost elephants' were found in Angola after years of searching.
- Genetic analysis shows these elephants are unique and isolated.
- Their discovery aids efforts to protect their remote habitat.
The Nkangala people of southeast Angola have long shared legends of a hidden elephant herd, a mystery that captivated explorer Steve Boyes for years. These elephants, dubbed 'ghost elephants,' inhabit the remote Lisima lya Mwono highlands, a vast, inaccessible region. Boyes' decade-long pursuit, including extensive use of camera traps and sensors, finally yielded results, culminating in a 2024 expedition documented by Werner Herzog's film 'Ghost Elephants.'
During this expedition, Boyes and a team of expert trackers, including KhoiSan master tracker Xui, successfully located a massive bull elephant, estimated to be around 12 feet tall. This sighting confirmed the existence of the elusive herd. Subsequent expeditions have allowed the team to collect genetic samples, revealing that the ghost elephants possess a unique matrilineal line, distinct from any other elephant population in Africa and isolated for a significant period.
This discovery is crucial for conservation efforts. The Lisima lya Mwono region, also known as the Source of Life, was designated an internationally important wetland in January 2026. The existence of the ghost elephants has amplified the need to safeguard this pristine landscape, potentially leading to one of the largest protected areas globally. Boyes also continues his search for the extinct Chobe rhinoceros in the same wilderness.
