First Disclosure and Preliminary Investigation of a Liquid Released from the Ears of African Elephants
Publication Type: |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication: |
2000 |
Authors: |
Heidi S. Riddle, Scott W. Riddle, E. L. Rasmussen, Thomas E. Goodwin |
Publication/Journal: |
Zoo Biology |
Keywords: |
chemical communication, elephant, elephantidae, endangered species |
Abstract:
This report is the first documentation, both behaviorally and chemically, of a phenomenon observed among African elephants (Loxodonta africana) whereby a sudden, often stream-like discharge of liquid is seen from the auricular orifice. During this initial investigation, multiple samples of the fluid have been collected for analysis of physical properties and components. Trace organic chemicals that are apparently of elephant origin have been identified in the ear liquid, and the aqueous nature of the liquid has been demonstrated. The continuing objectives of this work and related studies are to determine the specific source of the liquid with particular focus on a search for auricular glands, to further characterize potential conspecific chemical signals, and to document more precisely particular social situations when this phenomenon occurs.