The elephant unknowingly tramples 100 bushes, 1000 little animals, and 10000 bugs per day.
The elephant is simply acting per his nature, without cruel intent.
The elephant, who thinks himself quite a friendly considerate chap (his droppings, after all, fertilize the landscape, and he's kind to his children), would be mortified if he knew the bloodbath he leaves behind.
The elephant would have no choice but to consider every single step quite significant indeed.