African elephants (Loxodonta Africana) in Hwange National Park at a waterhole by Kees van den Burg

About "African elephants (Loxodonta Africana) in Hwange National Park at a waterhole"

by Kees van den Burg

About the artwork

African elephants (Loxodonta Africana) in Hwange National Park at a waterhole.

Hwange National Park is the largest national park in Zimbabwe and is located in the west of the country, near the border with Botswana. The park itaat known for its diverse flora and fauna. Hwange covers a vast area of about 14,650 square kilometres, making it one of the largest national parks in Africa. There are numerous water sources in the park, including natural waterholes and artificial watering holes that are essential for wildlife, especially during dry seasons. The park plays a crucial role in maintaining Zimbabwe's biodiversity and contributes to the conservation of endangered species.

The African elephant is the largest land animal in the world and one of the most impressive and iconic animals of the African continent. Adult males can reach a shoulder height of 3 to 4 metres and a weight of 5,000 to 14,000 kilograms. Females are generally smaller, with a height of 2.4 to 2.8 metres and a weight of 2,500 to 6,300 kilograms. Elephants are known for their complex social structures. They often live in close family groups, led by a matriarch (oldest female). These groups consist of related females and their offspring. African elephants play a crucial role in the ecosystems in which they live, knocking down trees and creating open spaces, promoting biodiversity. Unfortunately, they are threatened by factors such as poaching, habitat loss and human-wildlife conflicts, threatening their survival in the wild.