Elephants are typically known for their calm and placid demeanor, often perceived as slow animals that indulge in leisurely strolls through their habitats. However, when driven by the need for sustenance, these majestic tuskers can exhibit impressive agility.
As adorable and charming as this display may appear, it also serves as a testament to the incredible strength and balance that is unique to the African bull elephant, the largest and heaviest terrestrial animal on Earth.
Mana Pools is one of the few places where one can witness such a scene. According to the 36-year-old photographer, this behavior is learned by observing other bulls, especially during times of the year when many areas, like Mana Pools, experience dry spells, compelling these gentle giants to become more innovative due to food scarcity.
“This feeding behavior is quite unique to African bull elephants. Mana Pools is one of the few places where people can observe this,” she shared.
Even though it wasn’t her first time witnessing this behavior, the wildlife photographer was still captivated by what she saw. Bobby-Jo’s portfolio includes images featured in renowned publications such as The Times, The Daily Telegraph, The Guardian, The New York Post, Huffington Post, and Africa Geographic. Nevertheless, she considered this awe-inspiring series the pinnacle of her career.
African bull elephants were once on the brink of extinction due to illegal hunting. Despite improvements since 2017, driven by reduced demand for ivory, conservationists emphasize that these magnificent creatures still face significant threats.
In conclusion, the agile elephant’s remarkable display of strength and poise in harvesting fruit serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of these incredible animals. As we continue to protect and conserve their habitats, we ensure that future generations can witness such extraordinary moments in the wild.
