Rest in Peace, Run Over by an Elephant

5 Days in the Bush, Northern Zimbabwe

Camping and hiking in the bush is a unique way to experience Africa. We learned about the stars in the southern sky over our nightly campfires, how to get our sense of direction in the bush, which tracks belonged to which animals, and how far to stay away from each animal type. We saw all the details that make the bush what it is; a unique and fascinating environment.

Then we got a little too close to the wildlife. We were well out into an open zone without any trees or rocks when a large male elephant in musth came crashing out from the tree line. Our guides said, 'hmmm, this isn't good.'

Our elephant continued to approach and then with just a brief pause and shake of his head, he charged. An entire wall of gray-crinkly-skinned-mad angry elephant was barreling down on us. He stopped just 10 yards away when our guides blasted an air horn to deter him. He backed up, shook his head and did it 2 more times before deciding the better of it and leaving.

Whew!! Just Imagine. *RIP ROE* (Rest in Peace, Run Over by an Elephant)

Thanks, air horn! In addition to being great at soccer games, you're also a fabulous elephant deterrent!

Comments

[kostas]

Very lucky to be there!
I think Africa is something different and very interesting place.
Have a very nice weekend.
kostas

[drsharna]

Hmmm...note to self: remember air horn when traveling...

Do you think it works on teenagers at band camp?

[Heida]

Absolutely, Dr. Sharna,

I'd say if it can hold back one elephant, that's roughly equivalent to, say, 10 teenagers.

;) heida