Understanding spatial differences in African elephant densities and occurrence, a continent-wide analysis

► We studied the impacts of human and ecological factors on thedistribution and densities of African elephant. ► We used a spatially explicit, continent-scale analysis. ► The elephant distribution is best explained by ecological factors but elephant density by human ones. ► Elephant densities strongly correlate with conservation policy, literacy rate, corruption and economic welfare. ► Conservation strategies must be organized in a socioeconomic context.