Elephants might be the most well-known and well-loved animal in African wildlife. But conservation   of the African elephant faces special difficulties. While the elephant population is half of what it was 40 years ago, some areas of Africa have more elephants than populated areas can support. That's why AWF scientists are studying elephant behavior, protecting habitats and finding ways for humans to live peacefully with elephants in Africa. Years ago, over hunting and the ivory trade were the biggest threats to elephants survival. Luckily, ivory bans  , hunting rules and protected areas protect elephants from these dangers today. The 21st century brings a different challenge to elephant conservation --land-use. Elephants walk across borders and outside parks and other protected areas. So they often destroy crops, causing conflicts   between local farmers and these big animals. Successful conservation strategies   must allow elephants to walk freely in their natural habitats while reducing conflicts between elephants and local people. AWF researchers are searching for a way to give both elephants and people the space they need. The AWF is collecting information on elephant habitats and behavior. The information they gather will help to develop the widest possible space for elephants. The AWF is helping elephants by protecting their habitats. And they also work with local farmers to improve their life in order to encourage them to protect rather than destroy elephants. What is the biggest difficulty in protecting African elephants now?
They are still being killed. Their habitats are being destroyed. They don't have enough food. They can't live in peace with farmers.