Schleich African Elephant Cow

Elephants are often referred to as pachyderms. However, their skin is so sensitive that they can even get sunburnt. Elephants therefore often cover themselves with several layers of mud. This also acts as a pleasant cold pack against the scorching heat. Elephants' large ears may not be able to hear any better than other animals, but they do help them to cope with the African heat. When they fan their ears, the blood in them cools down and provides refreshment. African baby elephants grow in their mother's womb for 20 to 22 months before they see the light of day. This means that female elephants have the longest gestation period of all mammals. An elephant herd often consists of ten to twelve animals and is led by an experienced cow.