The expertise of our guides stopped this situation from becoming volatile. We were enjoying lunch on a small island along the Zambezi. A very large bull elephant approached. Our guides, Doug and Steve, presumed the elephant wanted to reach the river for a drink. We were advised to leave all our gear and slowly move away to allow the elephant a direct path to the water. This elephant 101 strategy seemed to work until the elephant did an abrupt turn about and headed straight at us. It was perplexing because he did not exhibit any loud trumpeting. He moved directly towards us with a determined pace and unhappy demeanor. The guides were armed, but use of force is a last resort. Doug advised us to move next to a large (6 foot) termite mound with a large tree growing from it's center. We moved slowly and attempted to camouflage ourselves. Dr. Ricci lied down against the mound and resumed taking photos. To our surprise the elephant followed and soon his trunk was between Dr. Ricci's sneakers. Dr. Ricci did a crab shuffle backwards. We all climbed the mound and hid behind the tree. Doug noted how the elephant had visibly calmed as a result of the tree serving as a barrier. The fear level decreased for us as well. Our elephant peeked at us through the branches. He gained confidence and continued to pursue us. We ended up moving in a circle keeping the tree between us and the elephant. His motivation is still has baffled. Steve estimated the elephants age at 34-40 years old. Mana Pools is now a protected area but who knows what past experience this animal has had with people. Would he try pushing the tree down forcing the guides to act in self defense? His incredibly long lashes blinked slowly .There was such intelligent contemplation in his stare. Eventually he tired of us and went down to the river and enjoyed a long drink. He was curious about our canoes but didn't touch them. He did indulge in a messy mud bath, so maybe he has a sense of humor. After his bath, he walked peacefully past us without pausing for a second glance. This was one of the most exciting days of our lives. I still believe the elephant meant no harm but I'm glad we didn't have to find out.

Female elephants generally live in large family groups called cow herds. They are extremely protective and will react any time they are surprised. We did encounter some cow herds that allowed our company. This was not one of them. They are intelligent complex creatures with different personalities. The most common defense tactic is the "mock" charge which is still very scary. The elephant stomps, flares its ears, and trumpets loudly. She may run forward but won't make contact. Basically it is an intimidation tactic and it works well. When an elephant charges for real its ears go back and you need to get out of the way fast!

Preface to a real charge.
Elephant in Botswana charges
our vehicle.