African Wildlife - African Elephant (Loxodonta Africana)
The African Elephant is the largest land living mammal reaching
heights of up to 2,8 meters. The male Elephant can weigh up to
a massive 5750 kg and females up to 3800 kg. The life expectancy
of Elephants are between 55 and 60 years, usually dying of malnutrition
when their last set of molars are worn off.
Elephants are extremely protective of their young and will not
hesitate to attack if they feel that their calves are being threatened.
When on attack the Elephant can move at a brisk pace despite it's
size.
Elephants rely on large amounts of water for drinking and to
regulate their body temperature. Ears are also used as cooling
aids. The large ears have many blood vessels and flapping them
cools the blood. The ears are also a good indicator of the mood
of an Elephant. When they are angry or charging, the ears are
usually thrust outward.
The trunk of the Elephant is an important and versatile tool
which can be used to move very large as well as tiny objects.
It is used to pull browse from trees, suck water, for touching,
dusting, lifting and smelling. The tusks are actually incisor
teeth useful for digging, breaking branches and fighting.
African Wildlife Paintings by South African artist
