Photo: Geoff Gallice · CC BY 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The African elephant is the largest living land animal, roaming savannas, forests, and deserts across sub-Saharan Africa in tightly-bonded matriarchal herds.
Appearance
It is instantly recognizable by its massive gray body, large flapping ears shaped like the African continent, long curved tusks, and a muscular trunk with two finger-like tips.
Habitat & Distribution
The african elephant is found in grassland, forest habitats.
Diet & Behavior
Diet: Herbivore — Plant-eating animals that graze or browse on grasses, leaves, and other vegetation, from tiny insects to giant elephants.
Elephants live in complex matriarchal family groups, communicate through low-frequency rumbles that travel miles, and display grief-like behavior around their dead.
Predators
- Lion (calves only)
- Humans
Prey
This species does not prey on other animals.
Interesting Facts
- 1
An elephant's trunk contains over 40,000 muscles and can lift up to 270kg.
- 2
Elephants can recognize themselves in a mirror, a rare sign of self-awareness.
- 3
A single elephant can eat up to 150kg of vegetation in a day.
Gallery
African Elephant FAQs
What does a african elephant eat?
The african elephant is a herbivore. Plant-eating animals that graze or browse on grasses, leaves, and other vegetation, from tiny insects to giant elephants.
Where does the african elephant live?
The african elephant is found in grassland, forest habitats across africa.
Is the african elephant endangered?
The african elephant has a conservation status of Endangered. Species facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future.
How long do african elephants live?
A african elephant's typical lifespan is 60–70 years in the wild.
How fast can a african elephant run?
The african elephant can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h.
How much does a african elephant weigh?
An adult african elephant typically weighs 2,700–6,000 kg.