My first chance to see elephants in the wild was in Botswana at the Chobe National Park in July,2006. Chobe is known for its amazing concentration of wild elephants which is supposed to be the highest in the world. These images were taken either in or close to the Chobe River.
Mother & Child
Young Poser
Savannah Sojourn
My second interaction with wild elephants was during my 2007 visit to Madikwe Game Preserve in South Africa. These images were taken when two local elephants wandered out of the bush & join us at lunch for a "drink". I am more than happy that I did not have to pay their bar tab! The lodge's pool is a frequent stop for these elephants who have learned it is a reliable and clean water source.
Elephant Cocktail
Enjoying a Drink
Trunk Rest
A final note on the last images. Watching this elephant, I learned that elephants, like people, are either "right tusked" or "left tusked". As such, wild elephants will rest their trunk on the preferred trunk and will also use that side for a greater degree of their daily tasks. This partially explains why most elephants have one tusk that is more worn down than the other. As you might expect, the difference is accentuated with age and greater wear.
Way to go John! I find African Elephants more stunning than our Asian ones.
ReplyDeletei like your version of shooting than the other.
ReplyDeleteInteresting how they are right or lefties. A wonderful series of photographs. How great it must've been to be in the pressence of these great creatures.
ReplyDeleteWow - what fascinating animals and marvellous shots!
ReplyDeleteThey are all awesome shots of the elephants. I love the shot with all the birds too.
ReplyDeletegreat shots. I love the photo of the one with the billions of birds flying over
ReplyDeleteGreat story and photos!! Boom & Gary of the Vermilon River, Canada.
ReplyDeleteGreat shots, and I think I like the one where he's drinking water the best.
ReplyDeleteWonderful opportunity and shots!!
ReplyDeleteWhy is it that the wealthiest take the most from the Planet? Its despicable! Your Elephant photos are Terrific..what fun that must have been-never knew about the left and right trucked!!
ReplyDeleteThey are sure intersting. Wonderful shots. Enjoyed each and everyone of them.
ReplyDeleteI much prefer your method of shooting to those of Bob Parsons. Fantastic series of images! I too have visited Africa a few times and was thoroughly fascinated with these amazing creatures. Outstanding!
ReplyDeleteAwesome shots John! Thanks for popping in to my blog as well! :)
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