The largest terrestrial animal is the African elephant. Known for their enormous size, adult male African elephants can weigh between 4,500 to 6,800 kg (10,000 to 15,000 lbs) and can reach heights of up to 3.3 meters (10.8 feet) at the shoulder. African elephants are characterized by their large ears, which help regulate their body temperature, and their long trunks, which serve various purposes, including feeding, drinking, and social interaction. They play a vital role in their ecosystems and are considered a keystone species due to their impact on the environment.