African Forest Elephant

About

The African Forest Elephant, scientifically known as Loxodonta cyclotis, is a critically endangered species native to the dense tropical forests of West and Central Africa. It is the smallest of the three living elephant species, reaching a shoulder height of about 2.4 meters. Both males and females have straight, downward-pointing tusks, which are thinner and harder than those of the African bush elephant. These elephants live in highly social family groups, typically consisting of up to 20 individuals. African Forest Elephants are herbivores, feeding on leaves, seeds, fruits, and tree bark. They play a crucial role in seed dispersal, aiding in the spread and biodiversity of their forest habitats. However, their populations have declined significantly due to poaching for ivory and habitat loss. Conservation efforts are underway to protect them, but their future remains uncertain. They are currently found in countries like Gabon and the Republic of Congo, with smaller populations in other parts of Africa. Their slow reproductive rate makes recovery from population declines challenging.