World Elephant Day: 7 Facts You Didn’t Know

Aug 11, 2023, 23:31 IST

Wion Web Desk

World’s largest land animal 

Blue whales rule the ocean, and elephants dominate the land. The African Savanna (Bush) elephant is the world’s largest land animal. Adult males, or bull elephants, are as tall as 3 metres and can weigh up to 6,000 kilogrammes on average. 

Trunks and more

Elephant trunks have around 150,000 muscle units. Their trunk is among the most sensitive organs found in any mammal. They can use it for drinking water, to pick up stuff, and do so much more. 

Tusks or teeth 

What we call tusks are actually their enlarged incisor teeth. They appear once the elephant is around two years old and keep growing throughout their lives. But, they also make them a target of poachers because of their huge demand and price. 

Thick skin

As per World Wildlife Fund, elephant skin in most places is 2.5 centimetres thick. 

Extinction threat 

Studies have proven that they're great for your cardiovascular health, and can help lower stress and anxiety. An added bonus is, children exposed to cats from a young age generally have a stronger immune system, hence less allergies.

Forgive but don’t forget 

It is said that elephants don’t forget. As per WWF, this stems from the fact that an elephant’s temporal lobe, which holds memories, is quite larger and denser than humans.

On their own feet 

Elephant calves can stand on their own feet within 20 minutes of their birth and can start walking within an hour. 

VIEW ALL