Elephants are mammals of the family Elephantidae and the largest existing land animals. Three species are currently recognised: the African bush elephant, the African forest elephant, and the Asian elephant. Elephantidae is the only surviving family of the order Proboscidea; extinct members include the mastodons. The family Elephantidae also contains several now-extinct groups, including the mammoths and straight-tusked elephants. African elephants have larger ears and concave backs, whereas Asian elephants have smaller ears, and convex or level backs. Distinctive features of all elephants include a long trunk, tusks, large ear flaps, massive legs, and tough but sensitive skin. The trunk, also called a proboscis, is used for breathing, bringing food and water to the mouth, and grasping objects. Tusks, which are derived from the incisor teeth, serve both as weapons and as tools for moving objects and digging. The large ear flaps assist in maintaining a constant body temperature as well as in communication. The pillar-like legs carry their great weight. animal farm audiobook animal toys for kids animal battles animal encounters animal cove what is your spirit animal animal attacks in africa animal kingdowm disney world animal simulator funny animal videos Shooting an Elephant George Orwell White elephant gift exchange virtual white elephant how to winterize elephant ears baby elephant elephant ear drunk elephant elephant toothpaste elephant plant elephant man party animals ps4 tropical rainforest animals grassland tundra the animals animal stuffed animals party animals release date gay animals in nature eating animals is wrong
