The African Elephant currently lives in 37 different countries in Africa. Elephants are the largest living land animal. The female gestational period of the elephant is 22 months long and elephant calves can weigh as much as 260 lbs at birth. Their average life span, in the wild, is 50 to 70 years. The African Elephant’s cousin is the Asian elephant. While very similar, these two separate species have several differences including the African being noticeably larger than the Asian and having much larger ears. The African elephant has a concave back while the Asian elephant’s back slopes down to the tail. Also, only the bull elephants have tusks in the Asian elephants, while both sexes have tusks in the African Elephant. The trunks of each species are different as well. The African Elephant has two finger-like projections at the tip of the trunk used as fingers, while the Asian elephant only has one projection. These projections are sensitive enough to be able to pick a single blade of grass. Elephants drink with their trunks and are able to hold up to 15 quarts of water in at a time. They either squirt the water in their mouths to drink, or onto their bodies to cool off. The trunk is used in social situations similar to the human hand shake or hug.Using our Tiny Ones, specie specific, hand painted detailed heads; we carefully mount a gold plated post and backing so you can display your best friend as a unique pin or tie tack. What a perfect gift for any occasion, including birthdays and holidays. All items are individually packaged, ready to give as a gift. Great item for that special someone!