Elephants are the most amazing creatures. There was a time when the elephant was king. They roamed the continent of Africa at will. They say the development of Africa is the story of the decimation of the elephant. The quest for ivory is insatiable and poaching continues even today, further decimating the numbers in the herds, in spite of attempts to control it.

It is known that the herd's collective memory is passed down from generation to generation and this is how the children learn from their parents. They can communicate with each other in close proximity by touch, gesture, loud rumblings, and squeals.  Over long distances, they use low frequency sounds, which are well below the human range of hearing.

The trunk is very sensitive and elephants have a keen sense of smell. By sense of smell they can detect other members of the herd and any dangers that they may not be able to see.  The trunk also helps them to forage and harvest the 200 to 300 Kg. of food they require on a daily basis. 

The gestation period of a female elephant is twenty-two months.  Mother elephant is fiercely protective of her offspring and will do almost anything to protect it.  The young calf will grow up in a very loving environment and will be cared for and protected by all members of the herd.

The elephant is greatly respected by the tribal people of Africa, not only for it's size and dignity but also for it's potential danger to humans. 

Photographs included in the collection:

Dusty Dawn 3759

Heads Up 406

Up Close and Personal 4088

Mama's Baby 004

Face Off 033

It's a Whole New World 005

Ghostly 027

Coming Out of the Mist 3762

Little One 3907

River Crossing 4014

Best Friends 3881

Elephant Hug 2285

Family 4188

Nose to Nose 2294