Elephant Behavior and Nutrition

A herd of elephants, led by the matriarch, visits a Salt Lick to obtain minerals. The matriarch uses her strength and intelligence to access the minerals, while the herd enjoys a dust bath for protection. The commotion attracts other herds, leading to a family reunion where bonds are renewed and new members are introduced. A newborn calf, dependent on milk, benefits from the care of related females. Elephant pregnancies last two years, with births every four years. The herd fiercely protects their young, sometimes leading to tensions as they compete for resources.

What is the primary reason the elephants visit the Salt Lick?

• To extract minerals from burned wood

• To socialize with other herds

• To find water

• To escape predators

How does the matriarch help the herd at the Salt Lick?

• By finding food for the herd

• By breaking open logs to access minerals

• By leading them to water

• By protecting them from predators

What brings more herds out of the forest?

• The commotion at the Salt Lick

• The presence of predators

• The smell of food

• The sound of the matriarch

Why do the herds gather at the Salt Lick?

• To escape a drought

• To migrate to a new area

• To renew bonds and meet new family members

• To find a new leader

How do the females in the herd support a newborn calf?

• By protecting it from predators

• By sharing the nursing responsibilities

• By teaching it to find food

• By helping it learn to walk

For how long does a newborn elephant rely entirely on milk?

• Six months

• Four months

• One year

• Two months

How often do female elephants give birth?

• Every three years

• Every year

• Every two years

• Every four years

What is a common cause of tension among the elephants at the Salt Lick?

• Predator threats

• Access to the salt

• Competition for food

• Lack of water