TED-Ed: Why elephants never forget - Alex Gendler

Elephants are highly intelligent creatures with remarkable memory and social skills. They recognize herd members and other species, including humans, even after decades. Their large brains, similar to humans, enable complex problem-solving and communication. Elephants display empathy, altruism, and justice, mourning their dead and showing concern for other species. Despite their intelligence, elephants face threats from habitat destruction, poaching, and captivity. Protecting these conscious beings is crucial for preserving biodiversity.

What unique ability do elephants have that helps them during migration?

• They use stars for navigation.

• They communicate with birds for directions.

• They can fly short distances.

• They recognize herd members by sight or smell.

Which part of the elephant's brain is associated with encoding important experiences into long-term memories?

• Cerebellum

• Medulla

• Hippocampus

• Amygdala

How do elephants demonstrate their problem-solving abilities?

• By using tools to dig for water

• By solving puzzles cooperatively

• By mimicking human speech

• By building shelters

What form of communication do elephants use that can be heard kilometers away?

• High-pitched whistles

• Loud trumpeting

• Rapid foot stomping

• Infrasound rumbles

What artistic ability do elephants possess?

• They can sculpt with clay.

• They can paint using brushes.

• They create art by choosing and combining colors.

• They carve wood with their tusks.

What unique behavior do elephants exhibit towards their deceased?

• They bury them with leaves.

• They cover them with mud.

• They sing songs of mourning.

• They perform burial rituals and visit graves.

What is a significant threat to elephants mentioned in the transcript?

• Competition with other herbivores

• Predation by large cats

• Habitat destruction and poaching

• Climate change