African Elephant

African elephants (Ndovu in Swahili) (loxodonta Africana) are the species of elephants in the genus Loxodonta derived from a Greek word meaning ‘oblique-sided tooth’. African elephants are bigger than Asian Elephants with males weighs about 4,700–6,048 kg (10,000–13,330 lb) while a female weighs about 2,160–3,232 kg (4,800–7,130 lb).

Elephants have four molars; each weighs about 5 kg (11 lb) and measures about 30 cm (12 in) long. As the front pair wears down and drops out in pieces, the back pair shifts forward, and two new molars emerge in the back of the mouth. Elephants replace their teeth six times. At about 40 to 60 years of age, the elephant no longer has teeth and will likely die of starvation, a common cause of death.

African Elephant

Their tusks are teeth; the second set of incisors becomes the tusks. They are used for digging for roots and stripping the bark off trees for food, for fighting each other during mating season, and for defending themselves against predators. The tusks weigh from 23–45 kg (51–99 lb) and can be from 1.5–2.4 m (5–8 ft) long. Elephants are gregarious and form small family groups consisting of an older matriarch and several generations of relatives.

These family groups are often visited by mature males, who check for females in estrus. Several interrelated family groups may inhabit an area and know each other well. When they meet at watering holes and feeding places, they greet each other affectionately.Smell is the most highly developed sense, but sound deep growling or rumbling noises is the principle means of communication. Some researchers think that each individual has its signature growl by which it can be distinguished.

Sometimes elephants communicate with an ear-splitting blast when in danger or alarmed, causing others to form a protective circle around the younger members of the family group. Elephants make low-frequency calls, many of which, though loud, are too low for humans to hear. These sounds allow elephants to communicate with one another at distances of five or six miles.

Some African elephant facts;

African Elephant,Samburu

• The elephant is distinguished by its high level of intelligence, interesting behavior, methods of communication and complex social structure, as they share a trait also shared by humans, apes and certain dolphin species.
• Elephants seem to be fascinated with the tusks and bones of dead elephants, fondling and examining them. The myth that they carry them to secret "elephant burial grounds," however, has no factual base.
• Elephants are very social, frequently touching and caressing one another and entwining their trunks.
• Elephants demonstrate concern for members of their families they take care of weak or injured members and appear to grieve over a dead companion.
  
  JBA- 2 days kenya safari

The Beauty of Kenya

Africa is a mid-blowing treasure chest of vast stretches of protected wilderness areas, with incomparable bird life, and countless animals roaming free- including the famed ‘big five’. Visitors on an African safari escape completely from their world , into this unimaginable one , where day is an adventure. You may experience anything like the overwhelming emotional experience of an African safari. If you have been before, you know it is as the thrill of a new romance. If you come for the first time, you will feel its intoxicating effect- all your yesterday fad away and all that matters is now.

Kenya Safari

It’s so much more than a mere wildlife adventure; it’s a journey of self discovery .in your luxurious accommodation or in rustic simplicity, in the untamed heart of Africa, no two moments are the same: a thrilling encounter with wild dogs, the indescribable excitement of watching lions or cheetah cubs at play, the inner serenity of the vast landscape, the mesmerizing heart of a roaring log fire.Africa has countless protected wilderness areas; here the big five and the multitude of smaller creatures roam free. For bird watchers, welcome to a paradise! where each new day , each new era, promises something unexpected and previously unknown  in the cycle of seasons, with huge wildlife migrations ,with ever changing scenery and infinity varied ecosystems. In south of Africa alone, the safari destinations are plentiful and diverse almost beyond your dreams.

Kenya safaris holiday offers a wide range of destinations, with a choice of accommodation and experience to meet every request. Imagine an intimate single reserve with world class accommodation, private plunge pools and cordon bleu dining. Imagine the more rustic, value-for –money tented or self drive adventure. Imagine everything in between. Whichever you choose, each new day starts with expectations of a thrilling game drive, and in most cases ends in a dramatic night drive to increase the chances of seeing a cat family a work.

What is Kenya safaris holiday? It can be anything you choose to make. Combine different elements if you choose, from Sweetwater’s or Lake Bogoria - to vast plains masai mara –anything is possible.

JBA- Kenya Safari