Both sexes grow tusks but Asian cow's remain very small and unnoticeable. Tusks are used to dig for food, to lift and carry objects and in fighting Molars may weigh 9 pounds each and measure about 1 foot long. Only 4 of these are present at a time, one in each side of upper and lower jaws. As these are being worn down, new molars gradually push old ones forward out. Large ears, especially in the African elephant, are used to wave away insects, as a cooling device and in threat display.
Legs are round, with especially strong and heavy bones.
Because of their structure, they are unable to jump even a few inches, but can run at 25mph for short distances. Eyes are small and eyesight rather poor. Hearing also believed to be poor. The unique trunk not only supplies their best sense, that of smell, but it is used to eat, drink, bathe, caress young, lift heavy objects, etc. The tips of the trunk are extremely sensitive, allowing it to determine shape, texture, and temperature of objects.