The Social Dynamics of Elephant Herds Elephants are highly social animals that live in tight-knit family groups, often referred to as herds. These herds are typically matriarchal, with the oldest female leading the group. The herd provides protection, care, and social structure, and elephants communicate through sounds, body language, and even vibrations in the ground. Herds work together to find food, water, and shelter, and they exhibit strong bonds, especially between mothers and their young.