When we think of African elephants, we often envision them roaming the vast savannah. However, it may be a surprise that about one-third of the African elephant population resides deep within the dense rainforests of Africa, far away from lions and grassy plains.
A remarkable sight awaits in the heart of the Dzanga-Sangha Special Reserve: a gathering of elephants known as the “village of elephants” or Dzanga Bai.
This natural forest clearing is the perfect meeting place for these majestic creatures. The question arises: what draws them out of their sheltered habitats? Andrea Turkalo, a narrator fascinated by these animals, ponders the mystery.
As it turns out, the clearing holds a secret ingredient essential to the elephants’ diet. The mud here contains salts and volcanic rocks that neutralize toxins from rainforest foliage and tree bark.
Turkalo explains, “Generations of elephants have been drawn to this location to search for these vital minerals and soothe their digestive systems.” Their method involves using their trunks as straws, blowing air into the mud.
The swirling mixture is then consumed, giving the elephants the necessary nutrients to alleviate stomach discomfort.
However, these minerals may serve additional purposes beyond alleviating digestive issues. Scientists theorize that these nutrients might contribute to the elephants’ growth and fertility.
Regardless of the exact reasons, the allure of Dzanga Bai attracts up to three thousand elephants each year. We still have much to discover about these enigmatic forest-dwelling elephants.
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