Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) are the largest land animals in Asia. These gentle giants need a lot of space to live and roam about. As they go about their business, Asian elephants shape the landscape and help forests grow. They are forest gardeners.
Asian elephants spread seeds from fruits they have eaten when they poop. Their poop acts as a natural seedling nursery – it is full of nutrients and organic matter that plants need. Elephants push down trees and clear paths in forests. New plants can grow in these clearings. When elephants dig and wallow in mud, they make puddles and provide water for many other types of animals.
Asian elephants are in danger from habitat loss and conflict with humans. Conservationists use camera traps to observe where elephants move and what they do. They can use this information to help protect elephants and their habitats.
