Elephant Photo

A tribute to the beautiful African Elephant.

African elephants are listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), while the Asian elephant is classed as endangered. One of the biggest threats to elephant populations is the ivory trade, as the animals are still poached for their ivory tusks despite strict laws against it’s trade. That said, other threats to wild elephants include habitat destruction and conflicts with local people especially when they stray onto small farms.

Elephants are herbivorous (don’t eat meat) and can be found in different habitats including savannahs, forests, deserts and marshes. They prefer to stay near water. They are considered to be keystone species due to their impact on their environments.

Naturally, unless about to keel over from hunger, most other animals will tend to keep their distance, especially predators such as lions, tigers, hyenas and wild dogs.

However, they may target calves but these are normally heavily protected by the heard. Females generally live in family groups, which can consist of one female with her calves or several related females (aunts and sisters) with their own offspring.

There is usually a Bull not far aware as the protector.

THE 10 FINALISTS HAVE BEEN SELECTED IN THE WORLD ELEPHANT DAY PHOTO COMPETITION. Here is the ninth by Pieter Jacobus Ras,Raisinphoto. Like and share if you enjoy this image. Keep an eye out for the final image to be shared tomorrow. The most popular image will win the audience prize. All winners will be announced on World Elephant Day, 12 August. With thanks to Conservation Action Trust and Wilderness Safaris.