A lavishly illustrated celebration of these glorious animals--and a
poignant lament for their future
Elephants are among the most beloved of all creatures. Their behavior
can seem almost human, from their complex social interactions to their
need to mourn their dead. They are also among the most persecuted of
animals, subjected to untold cruelty at the hands of humans through the
ages. In this stunningly illustrated book, Errol Fuller provides a rich
and moving portrait of elephants, exploring their natural history, the
legends that have grown up around them, their unique place in art and
literature, and their urgent need for protection today.
Fuller traces the evolution of these majestic animals from prehistoric
mammoths and mastodons to today's African and Asian elephants, and looks
at their behavior, herd dynamics, and social life. He examines the role
of elephants in cultures around the world, from folklore and fine art to
the exploitation of elephants as war machines and circus animals. Fuller
also discusses the importance of conservation, warning that continued
poaching and habitat degradation could send these iconic animals the way
of the dodo.
Featuring many evocative photos never before published, Elephant is a
fittingly exquisite tribute to these breathtaking creatures.
