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Welcome to Science News, where we explore the fascinating science behind the natural world. Today, we’re focusing on one of the most recognizable features of the African elephant: its massive ears.
The African elephant (Loxodonta africana) is not only the largest land mammal on Earth, but it also has the largest ears of any living elephant species. In fact, their ears can account for up to 20% of their total body surface area. While these ears are undeniably impressive, they serve a far more important purpose than just helping elephants hear. The unique shape and size of these ears are vital to the elephant's ability to survive in the often scorching environments it inhabits.
African elephants are known to roam vast distances, often covering up to 25 kilometers per day. On some occasions, they can travel as far as 190 kilometers. These long journeys take them through a wide range of environments, from tall grasslands to dense forests, but the hottest and most challenging regions are deserts and dry savannas. In these hot climates, where temperatures can easily soar well above 40 degrees Celsius, elephants need an efficient way to regulate their body temperature. Their bodies are adapted to maintain an optimal temperature of around 36 degrees Celsius, but this can be difficult in extreme heat.