When people observe young elephants kicking and flailing, the term “tantrum” is often used to categorize the display of frustration or displeasure. This interpretation stems from the human tendency to view animal behavior through the lens of human emotion. For scientists studying elephant behavior, or ethologists, these actions are not random outbursts but rather recognizable forms of social communication and signals of distress.
The Reality of Elephant Behavior
While “tantrum” is generally reserved for human children, elephant calves exhibit dramatic behaviors signaling unhappiness, frustration, or need for attention. Ethologists recognize these displays as specific communication tools within the complex social structure of the herd. These actions allow the calf to express its needs to its mother and the other female members of the family unit.
The high intelligence of elephants, coupled with strong familial bonds, means calves learn quickly how to communicate with caregivers. This behavior is a functional part of their development, helping them learn social boundaries. Adults in the herd often respond in ways that either reinforce or discourage the behavior.
How Frustration is Expressed
The behaviors observers label as a “tantrum” are highly visual and descriptive. A frustrated calf may begin by shaking its head rapidly, causing its large ears to flap dramatically, a clear sign of displeasure. If ignored, the display often escalates to physical action.
The young elephant might stomp its feet or abruptly drop to the ground, sometimes rolling in the dirt. These actions are often accompanied by vocalizations, such as loud, high-pitched squeaks of protest or deep rumbles of annoyance. The calf may also extend its trunk and flail it wildly or “nose-dive” into the ground, refusing to move. This exaggerated exhibition contrasts sharply with typical elephant play, which involves mock charging or gentle wrestling.
Why These Behaviors Occur
These dramatic displays are rooted in the developmental stage and social needs of the elephant calf. A primary reason for the behavior is the testing of social boundaries within the herd, particularly with the mother or allomothers—the “aunties” who assist in raising the young. As the calf grows, it asserts its independence and tests the limits of its caregivers’ patience.
The behavior also frequently occurs during times of stress, such as the natural process of weaning, which can extend up to four years in the wild. The emotional stress of losing the comfort and nutrition of the mother’s milk can trigger intense protests.
By flailing and vocalizing, the calf powerfully signals its distress or unmet need to the adult elephants. These actions serve a clear communication function, signaling to the matriarch and other caregivers that the calf requires attention or reassurance. The adult elephants’ response, whether comfort or deliberate ignoring, teaches the calf about the effectiveness of its communication methods.