The Elephant
The Elephant
(Loxodonta africana)
- Class: mammalia
- Order: proboscidae
- Family: elephantidae
- Status: threatened
- Elephant population has been drastically reduced due to ivory trade. Nowadays, the main problem is conflict with farmers and fields’ destruction.
- Life span: 60 years
- Caractéristiques: this colossal pachyderm is Africa ‘s largest mammal. Elephants need large amounts of water for drinking, showering and bathing. They are better swimmers than hippopotami. Male elephants, which can reach more than 3m in height can weigh up to 6 tonnes, and females up to 4 tonnes. They live in herds led by one female. The female gives birth to a single calf after a gestation period of 23 months.
- Meal: it is a herbivore which feeds mostly on branches, leaves and the bark of trees.
- Anecdote: the habitat provided for elephants at Planète Sauvage is exceptional – six hectares of prairies and a bathing lake covering half a hectare. Elephants remain a highly endangered species in their natural environment.
