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What you should know about elephants
The Land of Giants - a name not chosen by chance, as Botswana boasts the largest elephant population in Africa, with approximately 130,000 individuals. Therefore, the chances are high to encounter these impressive mammals up close on one of our safari trips.
They are generally found in the drier savannah and desert landscapes of southern and eastern Africa, or in evergreen tropical wetlands of central Africa, particularly in the Congo Basin.
To acquaint you with who exactly crosses your path there, we'll share more about these fascinating pachyderms below.
Physical characteristics of the African Elephant
One thing is certain: the African Elephant is particularly notable for its impressive size.
With a shoulder height of almost three and a half meters, a length between four and five meters, and a weight ranging from four to seven tons, it is the largest land mammal. Also unmistakable are its large ears, which contribute to regulating body temperature through continuous flapping.
The slightly curved tusks can grow up to three meters long and are pronounced in both male and female African elephants, with those of the bulls usually being larger.
The skull is rounded, and the trunk is equipped with two "fingers" for grasping. The skin of the African elephant is relatively wrinkled.
African elephants, like their Asian relatives, are highly intelligent animals and can live to be between 60 and 80 years old.
Social Behavior of the African Elephant
African elephants live in matriarchal societies, consisting of juveniles and young females, which are lead by a cow at the front.
The relationship among the elephants is very close, with females not only protecting their own offspring but also those of other females in times of danger.
Male juveniles remain with their mothers for several years before joining young bull groups.
Feeding Behavior of the African Elephant
Elephants spend approximately 17 to 19 hours a day feeding and searching for suitable watering holes for drinking and (mud) bathing.
During their search for food, they often traverse vast areas and can, under certain circumstances, particularly during the dry season, significantly impact ecosystems.
Threats from Human-Wildlife conflict
The International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) red list categorizes the African Elephant as a vulnerable species. While illegal hunting, particularly for ivory, was once the greatest threat, the loss of natural habitat due to human expansion now poses a serious danger to the population.
The increasing settlement of vast areas in Africa limits the habitats and traditional herd routes of the animals, negatively impacting population development.
