Undoubtedly the most iconic type 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 wider ears.

History: Unfortunately, both species of African elephant (the African elephant and the African forest elephant) are classified as vulnerable by the IUCN. More specifically, they suffer from fragmentation and loss of their natural habitat and are among the most frequently poached animals worldwide.

It is believed that the population of African elephants has decreased by more than 100,000 individuals over the past decade, which would be one of the most rapid wildlife population declines in recent memory.

Scientific name: Genus Loxodonta

Characteristics: Did you know that the ears of the African elephant are actually the same shape as the African continent?