Api Elephant Domestication Center, Protected wildlife area in Api, Democratic Republic of the Congo
The Api Elephant Domestication Center is a protected facility in northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo with enclosures and training areas for elephants. The site sits within a strictly regulated conservation zone where animals receive care and training.
The center was founded in 1899 under Belgian colonial rule and served from the start as a training site for elephants. Early methods demonstrated that these animals could perform heavy labor tasks.
Local communities share their knowledge about elephant behavior with the staff at the center. Visitors can observe how this understanding shapes daily interactions with the animals.
Access to the center is strictly controlled and requires advance preparation and permission. Visitors should contact ahead, as visits are only possible with organized tours and guides.
The center developed specialized training methods that proved African elephants could perform work tasks with greater strength than oxen. These findings challenged prevailing beliefs about what these animals could accomplish.
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