Elephant matriarchy is at risk — here’s why that matters and what you can do to protect it.
In the lead up to WORLD ELEPHANT DAY on August 12, we are highlighting the impressive ways of elephants. Today’s topic — the vital role matriarchy and family bonds play in elephant societies.
Much like humans, elephants form family units (herds) with those closest to them. These units typically consist of a mother, her calve(s) and their immediate relatives. No matter the makeup, elephant herds are always led by a matriarch — usually the oldest and largest female elephant.
