**Class: "Mammalian Biology 301: The Majestic Elephant"**

**Unit: 7.3 "Elephant Reproduction: The Cycle of Life"**

**Date: June 14, 2023**

**Notes:**

1. **Sexual Dimorphism:** Elephants are sexually dimorphic, with males being larger
than females. Males, or bulls, develop large, elongated incisor teeth known as
tusks, which are more prominent than in females.

2. **Mating Behavior:** Males experience periods of heightened sexual and

aggressive activity known as "musth." During musth, males compete for access to
receptive females. A female elephant, or cow, signals her readiness to mate via
estrus.

3. **Gestation:** Elephants have the longest gestation period among mammals,

lasting approximately 22 months. Pregnancy is usually single, but twins can occur
albeit rarely.

4. **Birth and Infant Care:** Calves are born well-developed and are able to stand
and walk shortly after birth. They are nursed for up to 2-3 years. Elephants
exhibit cooperative care, with other females in the herd assisting with the calf's
upbringing.

5. **Puberty and Lifespan:** Female elephants reach sexual maturity around 10-12
years of age, while males mature later, around 14-15 years. The lifespan of
elephants in the wild is typically 60-70 years.

6. **Conservation Impact:** Reproductive traits of elephants, including long

gestation and extended care for offspring, impact conservation efforts. Slow
reproduction rates can limit population recovery in face of threats like poaching
and habitat loss.

In the next class, we'll examine the unique environmental and social factors that
affect elephant reproduction, and delve deeper into the implications for
conservation strategies.