National Elephant Appreciation Day

National Elephant Appreciation Day is dedicated to majestic, intelligent, and beautiful animals that deserve attention and respect. Among land animals, elephants are the largest, so it’s no surprise they have a personal holiday. One of the main reasons for celebrating National Elephant Appreciation Day is their declining numbers. Without protective measures, elephants face the threat of extinction.

Historical Dates Associated with Elephants

In 279 BC, elephants took part in a significant battle in southern Italy. General Pyrrhus used them, and they secured victory. In 1514, the monarch of Portugal, Manuel I, presented an elephant to Pope Leo X. In 1914, the Zoological Society sold the elephant Jumbo to the circus for 2,000 pounds sterling. National Elephant Appreciation Day was first celebrated in 1996, founded by publisher Wayne Hepburn.

Interesting Facts

• An elephant’s trunk is so dexterous that it can pick up a grain of rice from the floor.
• Elephants are born blind, but they quickly become independent.
• The life expectancy of an elephant ranges from 50 to 70 years.
• The belief that elephants are afraid of mice is a myth; some African tribes even use elephants to scare away rodents.

How to Take Part

Visit the zoo to see elephants. Of course, it is much more interesting and exciting to watch them in their natural habitat, but not everyone has that opportunity. Learn more about these animals—read books, watch films and documentaries. If you enjoy crafts, visit the nearest craft store and make something creative: decorate a bag, T-shirt, cup, or plate with an elephant motif.

When is National Elephant Appreciation Day in 2025?

National Elephant Appreciation Day is observed on September 22 each year.

Observations