Everyone can recognise an elephant, although many do not realise that there are three species: Asian, African savannah and African forest.
The African savannah elephant is probably the most familiar, with its large ears and long curving tusks.
Elephants are famous for their good memories, which are a key feature in helping them to survive the variable, and often harsh, climate of the African plains.
Elephants are very social animals. Family relationships between herd members are very strong, with females staying in their mothers' herd all of their lives. When males are around 6-7 years old, they will leave the herd and form small groups of their own.
Although bull elephants spend a lot of time alone, they regularly meet up and renew their friendships, one of their favourite meeting places being around water holes.
Family groups of females also keep in touch with neighbouring families, to whom they are often related, and may join up to search for food and water in times of hardship. The matriarch is particularly important when food and water are scarce.
ELEPHANT TRIPS
- Gain privileged insight into primate conservation
- Track gorillas alongside the regions top primatologist
- Meet local communities involved in conservation projects
- This trip contributes to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
PRICE: £5,475.00 including THREE permits per person
DATES: 31/01/2009, 31/05/2009, 06/09/2009
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- Uncover the adventures of conservationist Jim Corbett
- Led by an expert film maker and published author
- Study the relationship between wildlife and local people
- Explore the foothills and enjoy stunning mountain views
PRICE: £3335
DATES: 14/03/2009
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- Track lowland gorillas & forest elephants in Central Africa
- Track these elusive animals alongside wildlife researchers
- Gain unique access to research stations in the forest
- Your money helps contribute directly to WWF & WCS projects
PRICE: From £4'995 per person
DATES: 14/08/2009, 04/09/2009
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- Track desert elephant in the remote north west Namibia
- Explore this wild area alongside experienced local guides
- Meet communities involved in elephant conservation projects
- This tour helps fund Save the Rhino Trust of Namibia
PRICE: £2'015
DATES: 18/09/2009
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- A genuine insight into Maasai culture and their wildlife
- An indepth understanding between communities and wildlife
- The best wildlife habitat in Africa with the 'Big Five'
- Learn new wildlife, bush and survival skills
PRICE: From £2225 per person including flights from UK
DATES: 14/03/2009, 23/05/2009, 20/06/2009, 15/08/2009, 12/09/2009
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- A remarkable opportunity to track and study lions
- Gain understanding of the work carried out by WildCRU
- Benefit from specialist knowledge of professional researcher
- This highly personal group trip carries a max of only 6
PRICE: From £3,649 per person sharing
DATES: 13/08/2009, 17/09/2009
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- Join an award winning community based conservation programme
- Visit 4 major national parks and 3 world heritage sites.
- Includes community visits, tree hut vigils and 4WD Safaris
- Study an annual gathering up to 300 wild elephants
PRICE: £2645
DATES: 15/08/2009
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