African elephant
The African elephant is the largest land animal on Earth, reaching weights of up to 6,000 kg (13,227 lbs). They are found throughout sub-Saharan Africa and are known for their intelligence and complex social behaviors. African elephants have distinctive, large ears that they use to regulate their body temperature and to communicate with other elephants. They also have a long, prehensile trunk that is used for grasping food, communicating, and manipulating objects. African elephants are herbivores and feed on a variety of plant material, including fruits, leaves, and grasses. They are also known to use tools, such as using branches to swat flies. African elephants are facing serious threats from habitat loss and poaching for their ivory tusks. They are listed as vulnerable by IUCN and protected by international law.
