The African Forest Elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis) is one of the two species of African elephants, the other being the African Savanna Elephant (Loxodonta africana). Here are key details about the forest elephant:
🐘 Overview
- Scientific name: Loxodonta cyclotis
- Family: Elephantidae
- Status: Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List, 2021)
- Habitat: Dense tropical forests of Central and West Africa
🔍 Key Characteristics
- Size: Smaller than the savanna elephant, standing around 2.4 meters (7.9 ft) tall at the shoulder.
- Ears: More rounded than the larger African savanna elephant.
- Tusks: Straighter and downward-pointing; typically ivory with a pinkish hue.
- Behavior: More elusive and shy; lives in smaller family groups.
🌿 Habitat and Range
- Native to central African rainforests, notably in countries like:
- Gabon
- Republic of the Congo
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Cameroon
- Plays a vital role in seed dispersal and maintaining forest health.
⚠️ Threats
- Poaching: Targeted for high-quality ivory.
- Habitat Loss: Logging and agricultural encroachment.
- Slow Reproduction: Females give birth every 5–6 years, making recovery difficult.
🛡️ Conservation
- Protected under CITES Appendix I (trade in ivory is banned).
- Conservation efforts focus on:
- Anti-poaching patrols
- Habitat preservation
- Genetic studies and species-specific protections (distinct from L. africana)
Would you like more detailed information on their behavior, genetics, or conservation programs?