Indian Elephant
The Indian elephant, a subspecies of the Asian elephant, is an intelligent and gentle giant. Found in forests and grasslands across India and Southeast Asia, these elephants are known for their smaller ears and domed heads compared to their African counterparts. In zoos, Indian elephants play a vital role in conservation education, as they are listed as endangered due to habitat loss and poaching.
Zoos provide elephants with expansive enclosures that include mud pits, pools for bathing, and shaded areas. Behavioral enrichment is essential, with activities like puzzle feeders, large balls, and interactive training sessions designed to keep them mentally engaged. Zoos also prioritize herd dynamics, housing elephants in groups to replicate their natural social structure. Many zoos participate in breeding programs and research efforts to understand elephant behavior, reproduction, and health, contributing to global conservation initiatives.