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.
In this matrilineal society, elephant matriarchs are knowledge keepers — treasure troves of information for making decisions during critical situations. Elephants have been known to display personality traits, with matriarchs reflecting greater leadership qualities. Typically, the older the matriarch is, the better chances of survival for the herd.
Elephant herds (which can be as large as 100 elephants) are fluid, with group membership changing over time, sometimes over the course of a day, depending on seasons, resource availability, and threats of predation. A mother and her calve(s) may start the day together, then move into larger groups (25 large by mid-morning, 100 by mid-day) to graze, only to return to a smaller familial group at the end of the day.
Unfortunately, because of their large tusks, elephant matriarchs are often targeted by poachers, influencing elephant social dynamics and contributing to the species ENDANGERED status. These are human-driven problems too great for elephant matriarchs and families to face alone. Say no to ivory and help save elephants by donating today.
