The African Elephant

The African elephant is the largest land animal, characterized by its massive body, large ears that help regulate body temperature, and long tusks made of ivory used for gathering food and defense. They are highly social animals, living in matriarchal herds led by the oldest female. African elephants are herbivores, feeding on grasses, leaves, and bark, and are essential to their ecosystems by maintaining also prairies and forests. They face threats from habitat loss and poaching for ivory, making conservation efforts vital for their survival.