Land mammal: African bush elephant

The African bush elephant, which can weigh up to 11 tons and reach 13 feet in height, is characterized by its pronounced tusks, and large head and ears. The elephant is also notable for its dextrous and sensitive trunk, which is made up of over 40,000 muscles and tendons and thereby allows the elephant to handle objects of all sizes with ease. African bush elephants can be found in most African countries, though their survival is at stake due to both poaching concerns and habitat destruction.