Elephants are mainly categorized into two species – African and Asian. African elephants are larger than Asian elephants and have huge fan-shaped ears.

These large mammals have remarkable memories. In an experiment, it was found that African elephants were frightened and aggressive when faced with members of the Maasai tribe who have had conflicts with elephants in their regions. However, they were relatively calm around the Kamba people who are known for treating them with kindness and affection.

They have the longest gestation period of all mammals. A female elephant carries her child in the womb for 22 months before giving birth.

An elephant herd is led by a matriarch, the oldest female member in the group. Females often stick together in a herd, while males are more likely to be solitary.

They are the largest land animals on Earth. An African elephant can weigh up to 24,000 lbs (10,886 kg) and grow up to 13 feet (3.96 meters) tall.

These gentle giants live in a tight-knit clan with immense cooperation between family members. Mothers and children stay together for life and females often care for each other’s offspring.

Elephants are highly intelligent and have their own language and even different dialects. They are known to develop bonds and friendships with other animal species as well.

Elephants don’t abandon each other when faced with an outside threat or attack. The stronger ones form a protective circle around the elderly, sick and young.

They are extremely sensitive and can grieve for days at the loss of a loved one. Some are even known to shed tears.

Their massive size means they have a voracious appetite. Elephants are herbivores and can eat 300 lbs (136 kg) of food in a day.