Day 5 - 224 -- Pachyderm Plight

Today is World Elephant Day. Habitat destruction, poaching for ivory, and human-elephant conflict are the key reasons for the elephant population reduction. Many organizations, including World Wildlife Fund, are working in Africa and Asia to mitigate the effects of poaching, deforestation, and elephants using farmland for food sources. They also work globally to stop the trade in elephant ivory. Actions of individuals can make a difference, too. How? -- spreading the word about refusing to purchase ivory, insisting on sustainably grown palm oil in products we purchase, or donating when able.

Learn more about these amazing creatures -- the world's largest land mammals. They have a tight matriarchal social group and share care for infants and young elephants. Their annual migrations across regions for water and food sources also help to maintain flora of the areas.

Only one melody stayed with me today. It is an instrumental that sounds a bit quirky, but upbeat. It was written for a movie. The version shared is played by the composer's orchestra. The video has wonderful images of adults and youngsters. Enjoy!

Baby Elephant Walk -- Henry Mancini with the Henry Mancini Orchestra