This Sunday on August 12, we celebrate World Elephant Day! How much do you know about these gentle giants?
Elephants have an important symbolism around the world, representing strength and power in many African cultures, and wisdom and eternity in some Asian cultures.
Did you know, the elephant’s trunk is one of the most sensitive organs found in any mammal species, with 150,000 muscles? Asian elephants have been seen to pick up a peanut, shell it, blow the shell away and eat the nut, all with deft movements of their trunk. We’re nut joking!
Elephants are nature’s landscape designers, creating gaps in dense vegetation as they graze, feeding on tree sprouts to keep the savannas clear, and spreading seeds and fertilising the earth with their dung. They are essential in balancing forest and savanna ecosystems, but their habitats are shrinking. African elephant habitat has declined by over 50% since 1979, while Asian elephants are restricted to just 15% of their original range.
Around 30,000 African elephants are poached every year, with illegal trade of elephant ivory at its highest level for 20 years. We’re working to train and equip anti-poaching patrols in Africa and Asia, as well as working with governments and local communities to reduce conflict between elephants and people. Do your bit and say no to elephant ivory products this World Elephant Day.
