This guide provides an in-depth look at the Borneo Pygmy Elephant, the smallest species of elephant in the world. It covers the biology, behavior, and conservation of this unique species, as well as the threats they face
The Borneo elephant, also called the Bornean elephant or the Borneo pygmy elephant, is a subspecies of Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) that inhabits northeastern Borneo, in Indonesia and Malaysia. Its origin remains the subject of debate. A definitive subspecific classification as Elephas maximus borneensis awaits a detailed range-wide morphometric and genetic study. In 2024, the Borneo elephant was listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List as the population has declined by at least 50% over the last three generations, estimated to be 60–75 years. It is preeminently threatened by loss, degradation and fragmentation of habitat.