Young elephants, known as calves, are born weighing around 200 to 250 pounds. They are typically cared for by their mothers and other female elephants in the herd. Calves rely on their mother's milk for nourishment during their first few years of life and begin to eat grass and other vegetation as they grow. As they mature, young elephants learn essential skills from their family, such as foraging for food and social behaviors. They stay with their mothers for several years, developing strong bonds within the herd. This close-knit family structure is crucial for their survival in the wild, where they face various challenges.