This incredible sighting was filmed by Shaheen Patel of Legend safaris.
The action unfolded unexpectedly and explosively. The setting had been fairly peaceful until an elephant came charging through the bushes. It was running after a wild dog which had clearly violated its territory.
Shaheen’s safari vehicle was right there in the middle of the action!
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Elephant pauses for a moment after charging with fury
After the elephant’s initial bout of charging, he stood still for a while, as though to survey the territory. He was a hefty fellow, and no doubt intimidating to the troublesome wild dogs.
They moved with great haste to get away.
Most elephant charges occur for reasons of defense and protection, especially when females are safeguarding their calves or bulls are defending their territory.
Mating aggression can also trigger a charge, particularly in males experiencing musth, a period of heightened testosterone which makes them more unpredictable and likely to attack anything that moves.
Sometimes, a startle reaction caused by sudden noises, unfamiliar smells, or vehicles can provoke a defensive response as well.
There are also differences between bluff and real charges. A bluff charge is meant to intimidate rather than attack, with the elephant spreading its ears, trumpeting loudly, and kicking up dust before stopping short. In contrast, a real charge is silent and determined. The elephant pins back its ears, tucks in its trunk, and runs at full speed, reaching up to 40km/h without hesitation.
It wasn’t just his flapping ears and thunderous form which had them on high alert. He also gave out a terrible trumpeting sound. The sound resonated throughout the tranquil bushveld setting.
The chase begins again
He began to charge again, tail in the air, tusks standing out like spears. He was a frightening fellow… even if you were a wild dog and were surrounded by your pack.
There was only one of him and a whole pack of wild dogs, but there wild dogs weren’t taking any chances. They ran as fast as they could out of harm’s way.
As he ran, the video included footage of other open-back safari vehicles in the vicinity. This was no doubt a terrifying and exhilarating experience for everyone in the vehicle. They appeared to be clinging to their seats as he came running out; chasing the wild dogs but heading in the direction of the vehicles.
This was game viewing at its finest!
Wild dogs disappear from sight
Eventually, the elephant ran past the vehicles and into the distance. The wild dogs were now nowhere to be seen. They more than likely regrouped a safe distance away, watching the enormous elephant reclaim his territory.
The elephant stood tall and victorious, snorting and flapping his ears, ensuring the predators understood who ruled this part of the bush.
Wild dogs are known for their boldness and teamwork. However, the lone elephant had caught them by surprise and reminded them that strength isn’t always in numbers. Not when there’s an elephant involved!
