“Om serves to open and clear the mind for meditation. It brings about an ascension and expansion of our energy” – Unknown
I had already been walking for about four hours and it had rained for at least three of those. My shoes squelched with each achy step, wet hair clung to my face, and my rifle sat weighty and uncomfortable. I knew I had another eight hours of solo trekking as I explored the very southern part of Londolozi’s concession as a training exercise and at that point, I was not happy about it. So I decided to do what any sane person would do in a situation like that – sit down under a tree and eat a Bar One chocolate.
A bull elephant is dwarfed by the expanse of wilderness that surrounds him.
I made my way to a little clearing with a small water pan and a single tree, carefully propped my rifle up against the sturdy trunk and began scratching through my bag in search of my morale saving chocolate. By the time I looked up again, the bull elephant was mere meters away from me curiously inspecting this unexpected individual. I froze. A moment suspended as we stared at one another, uncertain of the other’s presence: each of us unsure what our next move should be. He initiated by taking a few steps forward and raising his trunk to within inches of my face, giving me (and my chocolate) a good sniff. I sat dead still, locked gaze as the grey muscular nose circled my face. A few steps to his right and he turned his colossal head back in my direction and gave his trunk an almighty flick, sending globules of elephant spit flying past my ears! Again he peered down at me, clearly recognising human smell but not understanding my crouched, seated form. He was curious and by no means angry. I breathed deeply, relaxing as at this stage as his behaviour had relaxed. In that moment, there was an energy shift and we shared a mutual recognition of each other: two earthly beings truly seeing each other in the ultimate of ‘om’ moments. I saw myself through the gaze of an elephant and I was completely at peace. He slowly turned and made his way down to the little pan for a drink, happy with my nearby presence. It was a magical encounter and one I keep close as a constant reminder of why I do what I do. And of course, why one should always have a chocolate stash close by.
A close up of the wrinkled textures of an elephant’s ear and hide.
The playful nature of elephant: three bulls have fun at a muddy waterhole.
Afternoon light catches this bull as he slowly feeds in the south western part of the reserve.
Today is World Elephant Day! These days that are dedicated to a particular species, really do encourage us to remember moments like this – where we are totally awe-inspired and humbled by another creature. Elephants hold such presence and it is no wonder that I am not the only one to have been moved by encounters with this fascinating mammal. There have been a few stories in the past that have really highlighted incredible family relationships, the intensity of motherly care, personal reflections and a look into their incredibly gentle nature. There is something magnetic about the energy of elephants and we are truly lucky to view these animals on an almost daily basis.
A youngster takes refuge between its mother’s legs.
A tree-shaped network of veins branch out into the ears of elephants, enabling them to cool down in hot weather.
What has been your most memorable elephant encounter?
Written and photographed by Londolozi Ranger, Andrea Campbell
Andrea such a special moment with the elephant bull. They are such wonderful intelligent animals. Thanks for sharing.
I once gave an Elephant a bath, her name is Lucy and she worked at a camp in India. Every day the Mahoot would take her and the guests down to the river and would bathe her. She would lie down in the water lift up a leg and a guest would wash her with a yard broom. One day I persuaded them to let her have two baths that day. You could tell she was very happy.
A lovely moment and not one photo.
If you can, there was a book published called Travels With My Elephant and Lucy was the pachyderm in question.
Magic.
What an amazing experience Ian!
Andrea, that is truly a moment you won’t ever forget & I’m sure you finished the rest of your walk very quickly, with even more wonderful memories. Thank you
That was an awesome encounter with an elephant–and it made me laugh. I don’t think I would have been as calm.
I suppose it wouldn’t have been wise to share your chocolate even though it wasn’t the “much more munch bar” kind of chocolate. You might have caused the bull elephant to change into a chocoholic bull ellie and follow you back to camp like Mary with her Little Lamb! Lovely moment with the ellie, Andrea. They are VERY special animals. After reading Lawrence Anthony’s book THE ELEPHANT WHISPERER I am totally hooked – but cautious with it. They are SO HUGE! Wendy M
What a wonderful heat pounding encounter! No where can you experience such things than in your little corner of paradise! Thank you for sharing!
I recently experienced my first wonderful visit to Londolozi & saw these fabulous beasts in their native surroundings & later at Knysna Elephant Park fed & stroked these glorious animals- am still on a high! Brilliant
What an incredible encounter Andrea! Elephants are such amazing, intelligent animals and I love the way they care for and look after each other. Thank you for sharing such a special moment.
Awesome story Ands. Loved it!
Awesome encounter Andrea thanks for sharing ! Magic power of (Swiss ?) chocolate bar on human and animal… Our best encounter with the elephants was during our first stay in South Africa in October 2012 in the Timbavati. 2 hours in the middle of a huge group of elephants with two small and funny babies arriving from nowhere in the bush and trees. Definitely one of our best, intense and unforgettable moment in the bush for Sandrine and I. Special thanks to our tracker Jacky and our (already) ranger Andrea Campbell !!!
Thanks David!
What a lovely story Andrea – loved reading it. I love those relaxed encounters with elephants – it is such a privilege to have their trust and to feel their ancient wisdom and energy – so special!
Thanks Debbie, they really do have an incredible energy!
What a great experience that must have been!!! I haven’t had the priviledge yet of seeing these beautiful creatures in their natural setting, but one day I hope to! Thank you for sharing! Pics are amazing, too!!
Great photos.
What a magical experience Andrea. Thanks for sharing. Love the ‘stacks on the mill’ shot of the bulls and the ears of the baby. Truly beautiful creatures.