Elephants are the largest land animals in existence today, and the only animal that has 4 knees.
These animals can be divided into 2 subspecies, African and Asian Elephants, the latter are smaller, can weigh about 5,000 kilos and have a height of between 2 and 3.5 meters. African elephants, on the other hand, weigh up to 7,500 kg and are between 2.5 and 4 meters tall. Theyalso differ in that all African elephants have tusks, unlike Asian elephants, which only some males do. In bothIndia and Sri Lanka you will be able to observe and care for these majestic animals, since Cooperating Volunteers has the elephant protection program in these countries.
Within African elephants we can divide them into two subspecies: those that live in the rainforest, called
African forest elephants, and those that inhabit the forest savannah. We also found differences between these subspecies, for example the forest elephant is smaller than the savannah elephant. Both the
African and Asian elephants are in danger of extinction, one of the causes is the hunting of these species to get theivory from their tusks. On the other hand, Asian elephants are endangered by the decline of their habitat, and the lack of natural resources.
The gestation period is 22 months and they usually give birth every 4 or 5 years. Usually elephant herds have a matriarchal structure, these groups are usually large and made up of females and calves, unlike males who tend to isolate themselves and go alone, although sometimes they also form small groups.
These Animals can eat up to 135 kilograms of food a day, feeding mainly on grass, fruit and roots.
Is it true that elephants have a great memory?
According to a study, female elephants can recognize sounds made by individuals of their species who left the herd up to 12 years ago. In addition, they are able to remember the sounds of about 100 individuals of the same species.
Matriarchs remember where to find water and can orient themselves overlong distances, which is why it is the older females who lead the herd. Therefore, elephants do have a great memory.
Where can I volunteer with these particular and unique mammals?
Cooperating Volunteers currently has two destinations available where the elephant care program is located, these are in Asia, the countries where you can do this volunteering are: India and Sri Lanka.
India is home to more than 50% of wild Asian Elephants, and its inhabitants have great respect for these animals. In This program, volunteers will help in the care of these animals, they will also feed them, bathe them and help with cleaning tasks.
On the other hand, in Sri Lanka, the volunteer will also have the opportunity to bathe domesticated elephants in the river and assist in the preparation of food and the collection of leaves and plants for the elephants to eat throughout the day and at night.
In Addition, in both countries, volunteers will have the privilege of getting to know the culture of the mahouts who are the ones who know and take care of the elephants. In Hindi this word means “guardian of elephants”.
You can also go on a safari in Kenya, Uganda, South Africa or Tanzania During your volunteering, and take the opportunity to observe African Elephants. Since volunteers have free weekends to visit the area, a great way to get to know these countries is to go on a safari during your stay.
Elephant care volunteering is a unique adventure and we’d love for you to join us! We look forward to seeing you!!