The forests of Gabon have an incredible diversity of plant and animal species. Smithsonian researchers work in Gabon's Gamba Complex of Protected Areas to inventory these species and study African forest elephants, and they have shared some stories with us.
For one study, they have been tracking four elephants to learn about and record their migratory patterns. Get an animated view of their journey.
In this section, you can also:
- find out about the Smithsonian-Shell partnership;
- learn about threats to the region's biodiversity
- learn about visiting our Biodiversity Conservation and Research lab in Vembo;
- view and add pictures to our photo gallery of the area; and
- ask us a question about the biodiversity of the Gamba Complex.
Notes from the Field
What is life like for a ecologist studying wildlife in Gabon? Follow updates from ecologist Hadrien Vanthomme and find out! 
Read more.
Where Is Gabon?
Gabon is a country on the coast of central Africa roughly the size of Colorado. The country contains large tracts of undeveloped forests. These forests have been able to remain intact due to a low population density and high levels of urbanization. Gabon’s forests have been found to contain some of the world's most biologically diverse ecosystems.
The Gamba Complex is a coastal area in southwestern Gabon containing two national parks (Loango and Moukalaba-Doudou) with a restricted-access industrial corridor between them.
