Baby elephants are truly fascinating and adorable creatures. At birth, they can weigh around 115 pounds (52 kg), but some may be as heavy as 160 pounds (72 kg). They have an impressive gestation period of 22 months, and females usually give birth to one calf at a time. These little giants are born mostly at night, which is thought to help protect them from predators. After birth, baby elephants can stand and walk shortly, an important survival trait. They’re nurtured by their mothers and other females in the herd, suckling milk for up to two years and starting to eat vegetation at about 18 months old.
Playfulness is a significant part of a baby elephant’s life. They are known to trump and flap their ears when happy or excited, and they love to play with each other. Young elephants are curious and imitate the older elephants, which helps them learn how to interact within their environment.
African and Asian elephant calves have their distinctions, with African calves generally being heavier and starting to drink milk sooner after birth. African elephant mothers are very protective and keep their calves close, while Asian elephant mothers tend to allow their calves more freedom to roam and play.
