In many species, from gorillas to turkeys, the males dominate while the females dutifully follow. But this is not the case for one of Earth’s most magnificent creatures – the elephant. Elephant society is ruled by powerful matriarchs who command the respect of the entire herd.
The Oldest and Wisest Rule
An elephant herd, sometimes called a memory, consists of up to 100 elephants led by a single matriarch. She is usually the oldest and largest female of the group. On her sturdy shoulders rest great responsibilities – from deciding when and where to travel in search of food and water to keeping the herd together and safe.
The matriarch is chosen for her intelligence, experience and social skills. According to Cynthia Moss of the Amboseli Trust for Elephants, “Elephant females are born to leadership,” excelling at remembering the location of vital resources across their vast range. The emotional bonds between the matriarch and other elephants run deep. If she passes, the rest of the herd will mourn her loss.
The Savvy Sisterhood
Elephants aren’t the only species to form female-led societies. Lemurs, meerkats, hyenas, orcas and others build social structures with females at the top.
Spotted hyenas offer an interesting example. These highly intelligent hunters live in clans dominated by females. Researchers have discovered that female hyenas outperform males in solving problems. They also play rough, being stronger and more aggressive than the males. This physical advantage helps explain the sisterhood’s rule.
Like Elephants, for orcas, or killer whales, the matriarchal bonds run exceptionally deep. Orcas live in tight-knit pods led by the eldest female. A male orca will leave its mother’s side to mate, but often returns to stay by her side for the rest of her life – which can stretch up to 90 years!
Mammals and Matriarchy
Scientists have identified a number of factors that can tip the balance toward matriarchal structure in mammals. Physical size and strength clearly plays a role. Larger, more powerful females are better equipped to claim leadership, like the case with spotted hyenas.
Longevity is also key. With life spans over 60 years, older female elephants and orcas have the experience and wisdom that garners respect. Younger members rely on their knowledge of migration routes, water sources and more.
But brute force isn’t always necessary. Female elephants win leadership through social awareness and memory. The deepest bonds in the herd are between related females. This helps create tight, stable groups where members work together to survive and thrive.
Ultimately, every species evolves differently in shaping social dynamics. For elephants, matriarchy has proven the most successful system for sustaining these intelligent, families for generations. Their matriarchs demonstrate that leadership takes wisdom – rather than physical strength alone – to guide a family successfully into the future.