Elephants are famous for their longevity. These gray giants cannot be mistaken for any other species, thanks to their massive size, large ears, and distinctive trunks. With their trunks, they can breathe, drink, forage, bathe, scratch themselves, defend against threats, and communicate with one another. The friendly elephant family of the Moscow Zoo currently consists of Pamir, Pipita, and Cyprida. They care for each other, enjoy life, and even playfully roam for the delight of visitors.

When best to watch them: during the warm season and daylight hours.

Watch the livestream at onlinezoo.moscow every day from 07:30 to 21:00 (MSK, Moscow Standard Time). Or come to the zoo to see them in person!

The Moscow Zoo is home to Asian (Indian) elephants, which differ from their African cousins in several ways: they are slightly smaller, only the males have tusks, their ears are smaller, their backs are more convex, and the tip of their trunk is shaped differently. In the wild, these elephants inhabit forests and mountains, spending three-quarters of each day foraging (they need up to 280 kilograms of plant food per day) and drinking as much as two bathtub-loads of water at a time.

Every part of an elephant’s anatomy serves a purpose. For example, the trunk is an incredibly versatile appendage—without it, an elephant would be as helpless as a human without hands. Their ears act as radiators and fans, preventing overheating and helping to cool the animal. Their sturdy legs enable them to walk silently and cross swampy ground without sinking, even when wading belly-deep.

Elephants form strong social bonds and support one another. Like all elephant families, the Moscow herd is matriarchal. Pipita and Pamir arrived in 1985, and Cyprida was born at the zoo in 2009. Elephants can live up to 80 years, so it is possible to observe them for over a long period of time. Watch online or visit us in person!

Old Grounds, "Elephant House" exhibit, near the "House of Birds" pavilion

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