20-week journey in six countries highlights human-animal conflict

Ian McCallum and Ian Michler form part of the 'Tracks of Giants' project, initiated by the Wilderness Foundation and The WILD Foundation. The route will follow ancient elephant clusters and migration routes through South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

Speaking to the media, McCallum explained that the two will travel on foot, on mountain bikes and in traditional dugout canoes across six countries. Ancient migration routes of elephants were chosen because elephants play a vital ecological, social and economic role in many southern African countries. "If we cannot effectively co-exist with, and protect [elephants], how can we effectively protect and promote the sustainability of other wild life and wild places"?" McCallum asked. Michler added that in order for humans to build a sustainable future, "we need to ensure that humans and animals co-exist."

The expedition is scheduled to come to an end by early September 2012 on the South Africa's KwaZulu Natal coast, Allafrica.com says.

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