Jenny enjoys a peaceful nap
Though some books claim that elephants only sleep standing up, the truth is they do lie down to sleep when they feel safe. Elephants forced to stand while sleeping often face harsh conditions – short chains that restrict movement, hard concrete floors that cause pressure sores, or dirty, wet surfaces soaked with urine and feces. Being naturally clean animals, elephants won’t lie down in filth.
Older elephants or those with leg and hip injuries may also be unable to lie down comfortably on hard surfaces.
But in a safe, loving environment, elephants will lie down to rest—taking turns to keep watch. Even when relaxed, their wild instincts remind them to protect one another.
