Where Do Elephants Live?

There are two species of elephants: the Asian elephant, which lives in south and southeast Asia, and the African elephant, which lives in sub-Saharan Africa. The can be found living in the tropical forests, woodlands and savannahs of these regions.

Both species are large, gray mammals, but have some differences in which to tell them apart. The African elephant, Loxodonta africana, have visible tusks and large ears that resemble the shape of the African continent. Their trunks allow them to pick things up, much like two large fingers. They have swayed backs and wrinkly skin. These elephants are the largest mammals on Earth.

The Asian elephant, Elephas maximus, are smaller than the African elephants. They have dome-shaped backs, smaller ears, and trunks with only one “finger.” Their skin is not as wrinkled, and only the males have visible tusks.