Mammals
Asian Elephant
Gentle giants of the forest, living in close family herds led by an experienced matriarch.
Quick Facts
Scientific name
Elephas maximus
Animal group
Mammals
Diet
Herbivore
Habitat
Forests, grasslands, and scrub
Conservation status
Endangered
Conservation status is based on the IUCN Red List and reviewed by our conservation team every year.
About This Animal
Asian elephants are intelligent, social animals with remarkable memories. Herds are led by the oldest female, who guides her family to water and food through the seasons.
Habitat & Range
Asian elephants range across South and Southeast Asia, from India and Sri Lanka to Borneo. Habitat loss and fragmentation are pushing herds into closer contact with people.
Diet & Behavior
They spend up to 18 hours a day feeding on grasses, bark, roots, and fruit. Elephants communicate with rumbles, many below the range of human hearing, and touch each other often with their trunks.
How We Can Help
Protect the places wildlife calls home
Protecting wildlife means protecting the places animals need to survive. Support responsible conservation organizations, learn about habitat loss, and share accurate wildlife information.
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