Elephant tracking dataset for the project entitled Population dynamics and elephant movements within the Associated Private Nature Reserves a(APNR) adjoining the Kruger National Park

The dataset includes the GPS tracking data of all elephants collared within the Associated Private Nature Reserves between 2002 and 2008. The APNR is located to the east of the Drakensburg escarpment on the western boundary of the KNP and consists of the Klaserie, Timbavati, Umbabat and Balule Private Nature Reserves (24º 03’- 24º 33’ S; 30º 49’ – 31º 29’E), comprising approximately 1,825 km2. A total of 29 animals were collared with either GMS-GPS collars or GPS satellite which were all manufactured by the same company. The precision of the GSM-GPS collars (Hawk 105 collars, African Wildlife Tracking, South Africa, Pretoria) were tested both within the APNR and the Kruger National Park and found to be <27.8m for 95% of the records. Field testing of the satellite tracking devices (model AWT SM2000E, African Wildlife Tracking, South Africa, Pretoria) had a root mean square error of <30 m with expected location success between 88-96% when tested in the field. The final elephant tracking data set was obtained via a “data downloader” supplying near real-time entry of data into a geodatabase while a data filter removed obviously erroneous GPS fixes, based on a maximum rate of travel. Data gaps due to field conditions such as thick vegetation, topography, satellite positioning or improper collar angles were also filtered until a cleaned dataset was imported. Seven of the study animals were recollared between 2002-2008, while 17 of these collars are still active (2012). Collars were deployed on seven females, 17 prime bulls (35-55 years of sage at present), three adults (25-35 years of age at present), one young adult (15-25 years of age at present) and one sub-adult (5-15 years of age at present).