Introduction to Elephant Behaviour
Elephants are among the most expressive and socially complex animals on Earth. Their behaviour is shaped by strong family bonds, rich emotional lives, and a remarkable ability to communicate across long distances. Understanding how elephants interact with each other, and with their environment, helps us appreciate not only their intelligence, but also why their conservation is so important.
On this page, we explore the many ways elephants communicate and behave. You’ll learn how they use body language, vocalisations, and even ground vibrations to share information. You’ll also discover what different behaviours mean, from affectionate trunk touches to warning signals, playful movements, and signs of stress.
To ensure accuracy, this section draws on research and insights from leading elephant specialists, including behavioural ecologists, conservation organisations, and field researchers who study elephants in the wild every day.
Elephant Behaviour & Communication
The Elephant Ethogram by Elephant Voices
For over 40 years, elephant specialists Joyce Poole and Petter Granli have studied elephant social behaviour, communication, and cognition. Their long-term research in Amboseli National Park, as well as in the Maasai Mara and Gorongosa National Park, has contributed greatly to our understanding of these complex animals.
The Elephant Ethogram is a uniquely detailed catalogue of African savanna elephant behaviour and communication. Built from decades of research and multimedia records, it documents hundreds of behaviours supported by video, audio, and photographic material.
By improving our understanding of how elephants communicate and interact, the Ethogram provides valuable insights for both research and conservation. It serves as an important resource for scientists, conservation practitioners, and the public.
Click here to explore the Elephants Voices Ethogram
