Gentle giants, profound souls: 12 facts that will change how you see elephants

Elephants have long captivated humans, not just because of their impressive size but also because of their profound emotional depth, intelligence and vital role in maintaining the natural world.

From their complex social lives to their remarkable memories, these gentle giants continue to astonish us with their empathy and wisdom.

Here are 12 heartwarming facts that highlight why elephants are some of the most extraordinary creatures on Earth.

Elephants Comfort Each Other with "Trunk Hugs"

When an elephant feels stressed, a fellow herd member often offers comfort—not with words, but through a tender touch. Elephants use their trunks to gently place them in each other’s mouths, offering reassurance in a way that mirrors human emotional support.

Elephants use their trunks to gently place them in each other’s mouths in a gesture of reassurance and empathy. Photo illustrated by Sinar Daily.

They Mourn Their Dead Like We Do

Elephants display an extraordinary understanding of loss. They have been observed standing vigil over a deceased companion for hours or even days, sometimes returning years later to touch the bones, as if paying their respects—a powerful reminder of their emotional depth.

Elephants Recognise Themselves in Mirrors

Self-awareness is a rare trait in the animal kingdom and elephants are among the few species that can identify their own reflection in a mirror. This remarkable behaviour indicates a high level of cognitive sophistication.

Matriarchs Lead the Way

In elephant herds, the oldest female, known as the matriarch, leads the group, making crucial decisions on migration routes and safety. These wise matriarchs pass down generations of knowledge, preserving the collective memory of the herd.

Elephant herds are tightly knit communities led by the oldest and often wisest female, known as the matriarch. Photo illustrated by Sinar Daily.

They Never Forget—and That’s a Good Thing

Elephants' legendary memories allow them to remember individuals, migration paths and survival details for years. This remarkable ability is vital for their survival, particularly during droughts and other crises.

Baby Elephants Have a Whole Herd of Babysitters

Much like human infants, baby elephants seek comfort by sucking their trunks. They are lovingly cared for by their mothers, aunts and older siblings, ensuring that each young elephant receives the attention and social education necessary for survival.

Calves are doted on by their mothers, aunts, and older siblings. This communal care system ensures every young elephant receives love, attention, and social education from birth. Photo illustrated by Sinar Daily.

Elephants "Hear" Through Their Feet

Elephants communicate using infrasound—low-frequency vibrations that travel great distances. They can "hear" these seismic signals through the sensitive nerves in their feet and trunks, enabling them to stay connected with family members miles away.

They Use Mud as Nature’s Sunscreen and Skincare

To protect their skin from sunburn and insect bites, elephants cover themselves in mud, dust, or clay. This natural skincare routine not only shields them from harmful rays but also helps moisturise their skin.

To protect themselves, they cover their bodies in dust, mud, or clay, simultaneously keeping harmful rays and bugs at bay while also helping moisturize their skin. Photo illustrated by Sinar Daily.

Elephants are Nature’s Gardeners

Often called "ecosystem engineers," elephants play a vital role in shaping their environment. By feeding on trees and shrubs and dispersing seeds through their dung, they promote plant diversity and create pathways that support other wildlife.

They Experience a Wide Range of Emotions

Elephants are not just intelligent; they are emotional beings capable of experiencing joy, grief, compassion and empathy. From celebrating births to comforting injured companions, their emotional lives are rich and deeply human-like.

Calves Sleep Snuggled Close to Their Mothers

In the wild, baby elephants sleep lying down, often snuggling close to their mothers for warmth and security. This close bond provides a sense of safety during their early, vulnerable years.

In the wild, baby elephants sleep lying down, often nestled against their mothers snugly for warmth and security. Photo illustrated by Sinar Daily.

Pregnancy Lasts Almost Two Years

Elephants have the longest pregnancy of any land mammal—up to 22 months. After this lengthy gestation, they give birth to a calf that can weigh up to 260 pounds and stand around three feet tall. Despite their long lifespan of 60-70 years, elephants typically have only four or five babies in their lifetime.

From their intricate social structures to their critical role in biodiversity, elephants continue to amaze us with their intelligence and emotional complexity. These majestic beings deserve our admiration and protection, and the more we learn about them, the more we understand just how extraordinary they truly are.