The Sri Lankan Elephant

The Sri Lankan elephant (scientific name elephas maximus maximus) is a subspecies of Asian elephant that inhabits the tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests of Sri Lanka. It is the largest subspecies of Asian elephant, standing between 8 and 10 feet tall at the shoulder and weighing between 4,400 and 12,000 pounds. It is also the darkest subspecies of Asian elephant, though parts of its ears, face, trunk, and stomach have no skin color. It prefers to eat crops such as sugar cane and various fruits, particularly bananas. It travels in herds of 12 to 20 that are led by the oldest female. These herds are reported to contain both nursing units, which consist of lactating females and their offspring, and juvenile care units, which consist of juveniles and their female caretakers.

The Sri Lankan elephant is classified as an Endangered species. It is this close to becoming extinct for two reasons. The first reason is that its habitat is being converted into farmlands and settlements. The second reason is that it is killed as a result of conflicts with the humans who live around its habitat. Despite this, though, it has cultural, symbolic, and economic importance in Sri Lanka, as it attracts tourists, plays a significant role in religious events, and supports logging operations by dragging felled logs.

Source for picture and all information: https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/sri-lankan-elephant