Since the previous century elephant numbers in South West Africa have declined drastically, mainly owing to hunting pressure. While elephants formerly occurred over large parts of the country, they are presently restricted to the northern areas. Based on historical and present distribution patterns three sub-populations can be distinguished in the Etosha National Park. Keywords: Kaokoland, Damaraland, Kamanjab area, Census, Elephant break-outs, Availability of food, Vegetation, Mopanie trees, Climate, Hunting, Savanna, Waterholes, Ivory trading, Migration, Spoor-following, Reproductive activities, Physical barriers, Sub population groups, Moving patterns.