Photo by beverlyjoubert / Beyond the overt devastation that poaching wreaks on wild species, there are many other more subtle, more insidious impacts. In elephants, researchers are seeing growing evidence of harm—not only for population numbers but also in the animals’ very genetics. In some parts of the world, for example, ivory poaching appears to have triggered complex genetic changes that are driving a surge in tusklessness—a shift that may protect these iconic giants from poachers, but also unleash unknown ripple effects on their well-being and the health of ecosystems. The consequences of our intense exploitation of the natural world are vast and undeniable. The need for change and action has never been more urgent. #elephants #endpoaching #wildlife #elephantconservation