The iconic African Elephant is said to be in its worst decline in 25 years with numbers shrining by 111,000 according to new research.

Addressing the shocking statistics Inger Andersen, head of IUCN said the data showed “The truly alarming plight of the majestic elephant”.

He continued, “It is shocking but not surprising that poaching has taken such a dramatic toll on this iconic species,” she said.

Other countries have disputed ways to protect the elephants.

Namibia and Zimbabwe have both proposed selling ivory stockpiles accrued from natural elephant deaths to help fund community and conservation initiatives.