A group of wild Asian elephants has been observed roaming their natural habitat and feeding in a cornfield in Pu’er City, located in southwest China’s Yunnan Province.
The majestic herd emerged from the dense forest and descended the mountainside one late afternoon in March, offering a rare and captivating sight for wildlife conservation personnel.
“Elephants have their daily routine. They usually forage around 3 or 4 p.m., and they will bathe in rivers in hot weather. Also, they don’t go back to the forest at night until the next morning,” said Ma Wenhong, an Asian elephant monitor in Jiangcheng County, Pu’er City.
After feasting on the growing corn cobs, the elephants moved towards a nearby river, where they were seen bathing and socializing.
The Asian elephant is not only the largest land animal in Asia but also has the longest pregnancy among mammals. Female elephants typically carry their young for 18 to 22 months, resulting in a low birth rate. According to the latest data, nine baby elephants have been born in Pu’er City since 2023.
In China, Asian elephants are primarily found in Pu’er City, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, and areas around Lincang City in Yunnan Province. The population is estimated to be about 360, and the species is classified as a national first-class protected animal.
Efforts to monitor and protect these gentle giants are ongoing, as they play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of their habitats.
Reference(s):
Asian elephants spotted feeding at cornfield, swimming in SW China
cgtn.com
