Watch Towers

WATCH TOWERS

A high, safe place can be helpful for active farm-guarding at night and observing approaching elephants

Using watchtowers and night-guarding helps with enabling farmers to react quickly and have an early warning system when elephants are nearby.

The main purpose is to provide a high, safe vantage spot to guard and observe the surrounding area, and to send alarm signals

method 1 : Small, Farm based

Small watch platforms can be made up a tree or on top of houses.

This is ideal for individual farm guarding at a household level.

Through active guarding farmers can help reduce elephant crop raids and farm visits

Best used with noise and light deterrents

Various types of tree platforms constructed by farmers that overlook individual farms in Kajire village in Sagalla, Kenya. Top left & bottom © Meha Kumar/ Save the Elephants, top right © Jane Wynyard/Save the Elephants

method 2: large or community- managed

Using a heavy-duty metal or wooden structure.

This is ideal for conflict hotspots and key routes where elephants frequently pass.

Good community co-operation is needed to help manage large watchtowers.

Noise making deterrents

Flashing lights or torches

Mobile phones

Sleeping equipment and supplies

Trip alarms for warning

Essential tools for night guarding

Can be dangerous due to heights and should be used with caution and experience.

Simple alarm systems using a network of cowbells or tins filled with stones can also be effective in helping alert farmers.

Community Watchtower in Sagalla (Elephants and Bees Project, May 2020)

Caution tips:

Weldmesh (heavy gauge)

construction method

If constructing a large watchtower, adapt the design according to your specific requirements. You may need appropriate planning permissions.

There are some high risk factors when using watchtowers or tall platforms.

Use safety instructions or protocols for both the construction and use of watchtowers

Ensure you have good visibility and light when using the towers at night.

Take care when ascending and descending the platforms. Do not climb towers under the influence of alcohol. No running or jumping off the watchtower.

Advise special caution with children and the elderly.

Credits and Disclaimer:

A WildAid initiative. Credit to: Latigo Henry; UCC Pakwach, 2016 cohort; Uganda Conservation Foundation; Uganda Wildlife Authority; Oniba Ernest and Maz Robertson. This resource is based on existing WildAid Africa resources. More information can be found here: www.wildaid.org For resources used, see References. Further research may be required before each site-specific implementation.Safety and caution is advised with all the methods presented in this toolbox.

* Save the Elephants is not liable for any costs, damages or injuries incurred by the use of these methods or information.

Illustrations by Nicola Heath