The smallest elephant in the world reappears in Africa. How small is the smallest elephant?

The smallest elephant (elephant shrew) weighs less than 1 kg.

Elephant shrews are petite and often active. They feed on insects and belong to the family Elephantidae. These small animals are 17 to 58 cm long, with soft hair and big eyes. They are lively and agile. Elephant shrews live in dry and stony areas of Africa.

In August 2020, after 52 years, the mysterious elephant shrew reappeared in Africa.

Extended data

After 50 years, a little-known mammal has been rediscovered in Africa. Elephants are only as big as mice. It is neither an elephant nor a mole, but is related to anteaters, elephants and manatees. They have long trunks, so they are also called "the smallest elephants in the world". Elephant shrews suck ants with their long noses.

It is reported that people have never seen an elephant on the Richter scale since 1973. According to the statement issued by the Global Wildlife Conservation Society, all the knowledge about this little-known mini mammal comes from 39 individual specimens collected decades or even centuries ago, and now these specimens are stored in museums.

Public trust. Com- The mysterious elephant shrew reappears in Africa 52 years later.