After the magic time we had at Machurini yesterday for Penny’s birthday, I took a nice drive on my own along the river. With Kim doing Wildcast I was under no pressure to finish anything, so I checked out all kinds of little things along the way…and some larger things, like a massive fallen down tree, which I think was a Schotia Brachypetala. This small stump prevented me from getting closer to the river and on the high river bank heading North I was hindered once again – this time by a herd of Elephant bulls. A little uncomfortable parked close to the river bank I move to a better position, which was actually closer to the tuskers.
I didn’t even break out the video camera, I just enjoyed the whole moment, but taking the odd photo. The older bull then built up the courage to edge his way in to see what the chunk of metal was all about. He put his trunk up against my bullbar and gave the vehicle a little push, then pushed a little harder…then decided he liked the feel of steel against trunk and used the bullbar to scratch his trunk. Another magic moment in the African bush!
I didn’t want to take any photos with him so close, in case the noise of the shutter unsettled the rather large fellow, it does leave one’s heart racing looking straight into their eyes knowing he could crush you any time he wanted. I noticed on the elephant from Nyari the other day that the one bull had lost the end of its trunk, probably to a snare or something, he was also inquisitive and came just short of touching the vehicle, at least he’s not an angry chap like George.
I spent a little time with Tanga again just before dark, Allan was parked next to Sosigi Dam and I came in from the opposite side hardly believing my luck. Tanga was in a little ditch on a mound next to the water, nobody would ever know he was there if they were just driving past, this is the beauty of technology. Alan reverse from the top of the mound to allow me to get in there to get some pictures. It had been a cloudy day with insufficient light, but I edged my way in and sat quietly to allow Tanga to relax. I slowly got the video camera out, then my stills camera, got into position and focused the lights in his direction. I’m not sure what it is with this guy, but he has some phobia against camera lenses. He began sneaking off just when I thought he’d stick around for a change. He’s a clever cat. The most important news for today…Kim found Puzzles at the den and she has downloaded! That is all we know for the mean time, but we will keep you posted.
Thanks so much for the update on Puzzles. Glad to know she has given birth. Was afraid her poor belly couldn’t handle many more days of being stretched so far. lol
Sure hope all is well.
That’s a relief to know. All the hang wringing can stop for a few days at least!
Phew! Thanks for the update. So glad (and relieved) to hear that Puzzles is okay
You actually were there to film this?! Wow, man, your life is incredible…
Oh, thank goodness Puzzles is okay - I’ve been so worried. Thnx for keeping us updated.
What a relief that Puzzles is ok. Looking forward to finding out about her new family and how the others deal with the new babies.
I love that she has given birth! I love it!
I cannot wait to hear how many she has had!
Puzzles is a mom again…great news. Thank you for letting us know.
Incredible elephants. Does the one with the tip of his trunk gone have any trouble eating and drinking?
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