Kenya probes 15 elephant deaths in Amboseli park

A potential toxic substance was detected in several of 15 elephants found dead in Kenya’s Amboseli National Park, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) said on 29 July 2026. The deaths, which occurred between late June and 29 July 2026, included ten animals that displayed partial paralysis before dying within two days. According to the KWS, the discovery suggests a possible poisoning event that could threaten the broader ecosystem. Amboseli is a key conservation area and tourist destination, home to a significant elephant population. Investigators will carry out toxicology tests and examine water and vegetation samples to determine the source of the toxin. The findings are expected to lead to measures to prevent further deaths.