A brief review of the status, distribution and biology of wild Asian elephantsElephas maximus

Abstract

The Asian elephantElephas maximusis distributed discontinuously across the Asian continent. The total wild population is 38 500‐52 500, with a further c. 16 000 in captivity, the majority of which are in range countries. India has 60% of the global population of wild Asian elephants. The species has a multi‐tiered social system with ♀♀ living in matriarchal groups of five to 20 individuals that interact with other family units in the area. Adult ♂♂ live alone or in small, temporary groups with weak social bonds. Asian elephants are megaherbivores that spend 12‐18 hours per day feeding, and they eat browse and plants depending on availability and season. Home‐range size is dependant on the availability of food, water and shelter in the region. Loss and fragmentation of habitat, human‐elephant conflicts and poaching are the greatest threats to the species. Asian elephants are managed using traditional and modern methods but progress still needs to be made to improve welfare, training and breeding for these animals.