Today's Reason to Celebrate

September 22, 2024 is

Elephant Appreciation Day

It's Elephant Appreciation Day! This holiday created in 1996 by Mission Media Inc. founder Wayne Hepburn. As the story goes, his daughter gave him a paperweight of elephants on parade as a gift. He became completely fascinated by them, and amassed an enormous collection of elephant books and other paraphernalia. His interest led to the creation of this day, where everyone can take a moment to reflect on these amazing creatures. 

You may not realize just how unique elephants are! Here are 5 fun facts:

1) African elephants are the largest land mammals on the planet!
2) Contrary to cartoons, elephants don't like peanuts. 
3) Elephants can live to be over 70 years old.
4) They are the only mammal that can't jump.
5) Elephants can cry, play, laugh, and have incredible memories!

Show how much you care about these gentle giants by donating to a sanctuary or foundation, or learning more about their habitat and behavior.