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Robert Ball

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Robbie developed a passion for the African bush from many visits to his family’s small holding in a greater conservancy just outside Johannesburg. Living in the big city his whole life, he always found refuge in the outdoors and has grown to appreciate ...

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on Elephants Digging For Water

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Great video Robert. Wonderful to see the actual behavior of the elephant.

Hi Robert, how nice of you to approach the hot spirit of this young bull, he made me laugh, so expressive! Yes when they flap.their ears or even keep them open wide is a clear warning. Anyway he just wanted to have his moment at the spa. How similar animals and humans are, in so many simple habits… besides elephants, I know there are prides of lionesses that dig to have access to water, especially in arid areas like Ruaha. Elephants are the bosses and can do whatever they want, the others (in this case you!) Have to wait….

Yes, Robbie, it’s one of those experiences you don’t anticipate. And I didn’t even know about this ability or need of elephants until our 2019 visit. Watched several elephants excavate for water. Deepened our appreciation of the abilty (cunning?) of those pachyderms.

Great to actually see an elephant dig for water and then enjoying it.
Thanks for this fabulous blog, Robbie

Elephants are very clever and they have a good memory. So good to see him digging for water and not drinking the first bit, maybe the first bit of water had sand in and he wanted clean water to drink. I know they are very particular when drinking water, it must be clean.

Very Interesting Video, Robbie. I don’t like grit in my mouth either!!!

What a fantastic experience for you and your guests to witness this behavior that’s been documented over time and seldom witnessed. Your blog is a good follow-up to the to the other blogs we’ve seen in the past few months that have highlighted elephants – how they regulate their body temperature as well as demonstrating communication and recognition skills.

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