Arguably the most iconic species of elephant, African elephants are native to sub-Saharan Africa. The biggest difference between Asian and African elephants is that the African species are generally larger, always have tusks, and have much broader ears. History: Unfortunately, both species of African elephant (the African bush elephant and the African forest elephant) are classified as vulnerable by the IUCN. More specifically, they are suffering from a fragmentation and loss of their natural habitat and are one of the most commonly poached animals worldwide. It’s believed that the African elephant population has dropped by more than 100,000 individuals in the last decade, which would be one of the sharpest wildlife population declines in recent memory.Scientific Name: Genus LoxodontaCharacteristics: Did you know that the ears of the African elephant are actually the same shape as the African continent?Size: Standing 6.5 inches long and 4 inches tall.

Arguably the most iconic species of elephant, African elephants are native to sub-Saharan Africa. The biggest difference between Asian and African elephants is that the African species are generally larger, always have tusks, and have much broader ears. History: Unfortunately, both species of African elephant (the African bush elephant and the African forest elephant) are classified as vulnerable by the IUCN. More specifically, they are suffering from a fragmentation and loss of their natural habitat and are one of the most commonly poached animals worldwide. It’s believed that the African elephant population has dropped by more than 100,000 individuals in the last decade, which would be one of the sharpest wildlife population declines in recent memory.Scientific Name: Genus LoxodontaCharacteristics: Did you know that the ears of the African elephant are actually the same shape as the African continent?Size: Standing 6.5 inches long and 4 inches tall.