Tanzania, Africa
Elephants
African elephants are the largest land animals on Earth and are native to 37 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. They are known for their large, gray bodies and distinctive tusks, which are elongated incisors that can grow up to 8 feet long in males and 3 feet long in females. African elephants are divided into two subspecies: the savanna elephant and the forest elephant.
Savanna elephants are bigger with larger ears than forest elephants. They are also more sociable and are typically found in large herds. Forest elephants are smaller and more elusive, and they are typically found in smaller groups. African elephants are herbivores and can eat up to 300 pounds of vegetation per day. They are known to use their tusks to dig for roots and salt, strip bark from trees, and as a weapon for self-defense.
African elephants are intelligent and social animals. They have a complex system of communication through vocalizations, body language, and chemical signals. They also have a strong sense of family and will mourn the loss of a herd member. African elephants have a lifespan of up to 70 years in the wild.
African elephants play an important role in their ecosystem. They help to maintain the balance of the savannas by spreading seeds and shaping the landscape through their foraging habits. On safari we saw large branches or entire trees that the elephants had broken off for easier browsing. They also help to maintain the health of the forest by creating clearings and maintaining water holes.
Unfortunately, African elephants are currently facing threats to their survival. The most significant threat to African elephants is poaching for their ivory tusks. This illegal trade has led to a significant decline in elephant populations. Habitat loss, human-elephant conflict, and climate change also pose threats to their survival. African elephants are listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Conservation efforts are underway to protect African elephants. These include anti-poaching efforts, habitat conservation, and education programs. Some countries have also implemented a ban on the domestic ivory trade to reduce demand for ivory. It’s important that we continue to take action to protect African elephants and their habitats so that future generations can continue to enjoy these magnificent animals.
Lists of animals we saw
Scientific names & classifications
