Today our little guy became a real elephant!
I was up earlier than usual to catch our little herd in the cooler early hours. They were in their usual little family herd, big mom (she needs a name too!), with her 4 calves of differing ages, including our little guy, and another mother with her calf. This mother is young and could be the big mom’s daughter.
With temperatures climbing, reached 43C (109F), our herd quickly sort relief at Lisililija and for the first time our little calf got truly stuck in, just doing what real elephant calves do! Having piles of fun in the mud.
I tried to follow up into the hills which was tough going initially as they headed up the steep ravine. Near the top our little guy panicked when he couldn’t make it up a small ledge. His calls of distress brought the herd instantly to his side and with little effort they nudged and lifted him over.
Then mum realised I was following them. She spun and stared at me. I was safe with many rocks for cover, so I spoke calmly to her, like I do each morning when I find them. She immediately calmed down, although still very alert and not happy with my presence. I backed off once they’d moved on.
And search as I may I didn’t find them again in the hills. Just these few lone dagga boys (buffalo bulls) were hanging out there.
Before sunset I encountered another breeding herd of elephant east of the airstrip and I was sure they would drink and swim at Simbiri dam at sunset. Well yet again I was proven wrong and they continued browsing in the mopanie woodland.
Recent Comments