Bornean Elephant

Borneo's largest land mammal, and genetically and behaviourally distinct enough from mainland Asian elephants that some researchers argue for separate subspecies status — adults are smaller than mainland elephants, though not dramatically so. Distinguished by relatively large ears, a long tail that can reach the ground, and a gentler temperament widely reported by guides.

Moves in matriarch-led family herds through lowland forest and floodplain, following well-worn trails between feeding areas, and requiring large ranges that increasingly cross into oil palm plantation land. Kinabatangan and Tabin offer the most consistent sightings, often from a boat or vehicle at a respectful distance.

Endangered, with habitat fragmentation and human-elephant conflict the primary ongoing threats in Sabah.