20/05/2025
Life Cycle
Elephants have an extraordinarily long reproductive cycle. The estrous cycle in elephants is one of the longest among mammals, lasting between 13–18 weeks, with distinct hormonal and behavioral phases (Hildebrandt et al.; Hess et al.). Females give birth after a gestation period of around 22 months—also the longest of any land mammal.
Calves are raised in close-knit, matrilineal family groups led by an experienced female called a matriarch. They are nursed for several years and socially educated by the herd, learning migration routes, foraging skills, and social cues (Vidya & Sukumar).
