Asian Elephant
Asian elephants, are magnificent and highly intelligent mammals native to the forests and grasslands of Asia. These gentle giants are distinguished by their large ears, curved tusks, and wrinkled skin. Asian elephants are known for their complex social structures, with herds led by matriarchs and consisting of related females and their offspring. They are herbivores, feeding on a variety of vegetation including grasses, leaves, fruits, and bark. Unfortunately, Asian elephants face significant conservation challenges, including habitat loss, fragmentation, and human-wildlife conflict. Learn more during Keeper Chats Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 PM.
Today, the Little Rock Zoo is home to two Asian elephants: Zina and Babe. Born in 1960, Zina is the elder of the pair, while Babe was born in 1975. The Zoo is dedicated to the highest standards of elephant care and conservation, with a particular focus on the needs of geriatric female elephants. Our experienced elephant care team provides round-the-clock attention tailored to the unique challenges of aging elephants like Zina and Babe.
Babe, who arrived at the Zoo in 2013, has thrived under this specialized care. She’s easily recognized by the star-shaped brands on each of her hips—marks from her time in Burma (now Myanmar), where they symbolized the country’s flag and identified her as a working elephant. Babe is also known for her artistic talents and enthusiastically participates in painting sessions.
Zina, the oldest and smallest of the two at 6,200 pounds, has a long, narrow trunk that is partially paralyzed and distinctive sunken cheeks due to crooked teeth. Despite her petite frame, Zina has a bold personality and is often the first to trumpet a greeting or show excitement. Compared to Babe, Zina tends to be a bit more reserved.
To ensure their comfort, special accommodations have been made throughout the elephant habitat. Large mounds of dirt are placed in key locations to provide support for resting, allowing them to lean and rest without having to lie down completely.
- Not all elephants develop visible tusks. In Asian elephants, only some males have large, prominent tusks. Most female and some male Asian elephants have small tusks, called tushes, which seldom protrude more than an inch or two from the lip line.
- Elephants communicate over long distances using low-pitched sounds that are barely audible to humans. These powerful infrasonic rumbles contain specific messages that can be heard and understood by other elephants more than 2 miles away.
Asian elephants are facing significant conservation challenges due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and human-wildlife conflict throughout their range in Asia. Deforestation, agricultural expansion, and urbanization have resulted in the degradation and loss of their natural habitats, making it increasingly difficult for Asian elephants to find suitable food and shelter. Additionally, they are often hunted and persecuted by humans due to conflicts arising from crop raiding and perceived threats to human safety. Conservation efforts aimed at protecting Asian elephants include habitat preservation, mitigating human-wildlife conflicts through community engagement and education, and implementing anti-poaching measures. Please join our efforts to secure a future for this species by donating to our conservation fund.
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The Little Rock Zoo is proud to serve as a sanctuary for aging elephants, specializing in the care of geriatric females. With decades of experience and a strong commitment to animal welfare, the Zoo has established itself as a leader in providing extraordinary care for older elephants.
