The largest land animal in the world is the African elephant, specifically the species known as the African bush elephant. These magnificent creatures can weigh up to 12,000 pounds and stand up to 13 feet tall at the shoulder. Renowned for their intelligence and complex social structures, African elephants play vital roles in their ecosystems. Their size and strength also render them vulnerable to poaching and habitat loss, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts to preserve their populations and natural habitats.