ASIAN ELEPHANT FACTS:

Scientific name: Elephas Maximus

Conservation Status: Endangered

Lifespan: 60-80 years

Mass: 2700-5400 kg

Height: Between 2.4-2.75 m

More About Asian Elephants:

There are 3 subspecies of Asian Elephants – the Sri Lankan, Indian and Sumatran Elephants. Asian Elephants are smaller than African elephants but have a few differences in appearance. These differences include smaller ears, a convex or level back and more “nail-like” structures on their feet. Their heads are their highest point on their body, unlike the African Elephant.

Asian Elephants are found throughout Southeast Asia, from India to Borneo. They keep to grasslands, forests and scrublands.

The gestation period for an elephant calf is 18-22 months. They are fully developed by their 19th month, but generally stay in the womb until they reach a height in order to feed. A female will not have another calf until the other is fully weaned, which leads to intervals of 4-5 years.

Asian Elephant Facts & Tidbits

• Male Asian Elephants will leave their families when the reach adolescence, meanwhile females will stay in families.
• These elephants have large brains and are highly intelligent
• Asian elephants are used in tourism for elephant back safaris, they also are threatened by poaching for their ivory.

Distribution

Asian elephants are found in Southeast Asia, between India and Borneo.

Status of the African Elephant

The Asian Elephant is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Their biggest threats include illegal poaching and killing for the ivory of their tusks, along with being held captive for entertainment.

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Learn more about:

• Elephant Facts
• Elephant Threats
• Conservation of Elephants
• African Elephants