Kenya has recorded its third twin elephant birth in three years, a rare phenomenon in the animal kingdom, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) announced on Thursday, January 2.
The twin elephants were spotted at Shimba Hills National Reserve, marking a significant milestone for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists.
The phenomenon of twin births in elephants is exceedingly rare, occurring in less than one percent of all elephant births globally. Even rarer are male-female twin combinations. KWS described the sighting as a remarkable event, showcasing the resilience and biodiversity of Kenya’s elephant population.
“Double dose of blessings from Mother nature! An elephant with twins was spotted in Shimba Hills National Reserve—a rare and heartwarming sight to kick off the new year.”
“Together, let’s safeguard these gentle giants for generations to come! Karibu, Tutunze Ndovu Wetu Pamoja!” KWS said.
The recent birth follows two other documented twin births in the country. In November 2023, Alto’s Twins, a pair of female calves, were born at Samburu National Reserve. Earlier, in January 2022, Bora’s Twins—a male and female—were also born at Samburu. Unfortunately, the female calf in that pair later went missing.
The birth of the Shimba Hills twins highlights Kenya’s growing reputation as a hub for significant wildlife events, particularly among elephant populations.
Why Are Elephant Twin Births Rare?
Twin births in elephants are rare due to biological and ecological factors. Elephants have the longest gestation period of any mammal, lasting 18 to 22 months, and carrying two calves places immense strain on the mother’s body. This can lead to developmental challenges for the calves and increased health risks for the mother.
Nutritional demands are also a factor. Elephants consume large quantities of food daily, and carrying twins requires even greater energy.
Post-birth, the mother may struggle to produce sufficient milk for both calves, often resulting in high mortality rates for one or both.
Genetics and environmental conditions may also influence twinning rates. Improved food availability, reduced poaching, and minimal habitat loss are believed to contribute to higher rates of successful pregnancies, including twin births, in certain regions.
Outside Kenya, twin births have also been documented globally but remain exceedingly rare. In June 2024, an Asian elephant named Jamjuree in central Thailand gave birth to male and female twins, marking the first official record of elephant twins of different genders in the country.
Studies in regions such as Tarangire National Park in Tanzania have suggested higher incidences of twin births under favorable environmental conditions.
Between 1992 and the early 2000s, 14 sets of twins were recorded among 291 births in the park, a notable outlier compared to global averages.
The latest twin birth underscores the importance of Kenya’s conservation efforts in providing a safe and thriving environment for wildlife.
Conservationists have highlighted the role of reduced stressors, improved habitat conditions, and robust anti-poaching measures in supporting elephant populations.
With this third twin birth, Kenya’s elephant population continues to offer hope and inspiration for wildlife conservation globally.
