Indian Elephant: Endangered/Extinct Series | RG Pettit

The Indian elephant (Elephas maximus indicus) has been on the endangered list since 1985. Their population has declined 50% in the last year or so. Poaching for their tusks, habitat loss, and conflicts with humans are their biggest threats.
These creatures are self-aware; like apes and humans, they recognize themselves in a mirror (an indicator of empathy). They are intelligent, form bonds, and mourn the loss of loved ones.
This piece is oil on linen, 10" x 10."