WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ASIAN ELEPHANTS AND AFRICAN ELEPHANTS?
The two separate species have many differences. When compared to an African Elephant (Eoxodama africana)[check spelling!] The Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus) has smaller ears, a convex -as opposed to concave- back, a more rounded head with bulges, only one (instead of two) "fingers" at the end of the trunk, and only males have well defined tusks. Further to this there are differences between the species in the number of ribs, thickness of skin, and number of nails on the feet.

HOW MUCH DO ELEPHANTS WEIGH?
A fully grown male (bull) Asian Elephant will weigh between 10,000 and 12,000 pounds (4530-5440 Kilograms), whereas a female (cow) will weigh a little less, around 8,000 to 10,000 pounds.

WHAT DO ELEPHANTS EAT?
Elephants are herbivores, their diet consists of grasses and bamboo (which is itself a kind of grass), wild palms, wild bananas, various shrubs and other plant matter - even plants that serve as herbs - up to 200 different plant species throughout the course of a year. It is essential for plenty of water to be part of an elephant's diet - between 30 and 50 gallons each day.

HOW LONG DO ELEPHANTS LIVE?
Elephants have a life-span similar to that of humans, often living to an age of between 60 and 70 years. Their patterns on adolescence and full sexual maturity are similar to that of humans at around 12 years and 16-18 years of age respectively. Elephants also are fully grown by their early 20's.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN THREATS TO ASIAN ELEPHANTS?
Quite simply the Asian Elephants' main threat is Humans. Historically we have hunted them for 'luxurious' Ivory items, and consistently we encroach upon their traditional home grounds and cutting down their home forests for wood products, agriculture, and livestock grazing.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN THREATS TO DOMESTIC ASIAN ELEPHANTS IN MONDULKIRI?
The Domestic Elephant population of Mondulkiri province, is in general quite mature, with many of the Domestic Elephants being in their 50's and 60's. At this age, simply working too hard, not getting enough rest, or unsatisfactory access to nutritious food and water poses a threat to the individual's health.
Further to this activities such as hunting and logging (legal or otherwise) may threaten the health and well-being of elephants as these activities can lead to serious injury.


FAQ info from "Veterinary Care of The Asian Elephant" by Dr Richard Houck, 1999, and "Elephant Care Manual for Mahouts and Camp Managers" by Preecha Phuangkum, Richard C. Lair and Taweepoke Angkawanith, 2005.