See These 8 Animals Right Before Their Babies Arrive
6. An elephant’s pregnancy lasts 95 weeks. You’ve got to be kidding me.
Elephants, the majestic rulers of the savanna, showcase the ultimate example of maternal dedication with the longest gestation period of any mammal. For an incredible 22 months—nearly two years—female elephants carry their young, a testament to their nurturing and intelligent nature. When the calf is finally born, it weighs an impressive 120 kilograms (265 pounds) and enters a close-knit social group where mothers, aunts, and older siblings all contribute to its care and upbringing.
This extended pregnancy reflects the unique developmental requirements of these large-brained animals, allowing the calf to grow and prepare for life in its complex environment. But the wonders of elephant pregnancy don’t stop there. Pregnant elephants are known to communicate using low-frequency rumbles called infrasound, which can travel over long distances. While the exact purpose of these sounds remains a mystery, researchers believe they may serve as a way for pregnant females to connect or coordinate within their herds.
The journey of an elephant mother is a remarkable testament to the intelligence, social bonds, and resilience of these gentle giants. From the awe-inspiring length of their pregnancies to their mysterious communication methods, elephants continue to captivate and inspire wonder in those who study them.
