Elephant Reproduction

Females (cows) reach sexual maturity after 10-11 years, and males (bulls) after 10-20 years. Gestation takes from 22 to 24 months.

Usually only one calf is born to a pregnant female, twins are extremely rare. The calf is nursed for 2 years and will remain with the herd until is old enough to support itself. Tusks erupt at 16 months but do not show externally until calf is 30 months old.