written by Amanda Liu
image: Gary M. Stolz, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Blood gushes in great eddying flows from the gaping holes. Flies have already begun to feast on the masses of carcasses. As an elephant calf, your chances of survival are laughable.
Say hi to poaching.
Elephants remember traumatic experiences. Whether it was just one day ago, or 15 years later, it doesn't matter. After all, they do have the largest brain out of all land-animals—intelligence comparable to chimpanzees.
Their powerful memories allow them to recognize long lost enemies or friends— those who have formed lasting impressions on them
Even more so, elephants can suffer from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). They may display symptoms of depression, hyper-aggression, and unpredictable behavior.
Many elephants suffering from PTSD have endured a traumatic or many traumatic episodes in their lives, from mass poachings to physical and mental abuse.
You've seen them in circuses. Parades. Perhaps in zoos. Elephants are often used as a source of entertainment, ranging from parlor tricks to rides. However, this only comes to fruition through pure persecution.
Behind the scenes, entertainment was never so pretty.
Often, they can hold grudges against their tormentors or captors.
Though just as they can express negative emotions, elephants also demonstrate behaviors that express altruism and self-awareness. For instance, they are willing to help other species in distress. Including humans.
Self-aware and self-less, they are one of the few species that lay claim to these abilities. Now it’s time to return the favor.
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