This unfortunate bull had stuck his head into a native's wire snare. He probably did this when he was smaller, because it appears to be snug around his neck and causing a visible ulceration. It's no wonder this fellow was irritable and chased all the impala away from where they were drinking. Natives set snares to catch small game, but it is illegal. Park personnel organize search parties to find and destroy them. [Masuma Dam, Hwange NP, Zimbabwe].
A young male Elephant dawdling with his trunk in the water--and making a lovely reflection. [Masuma, Hwange NP, Zimbabwe].
A matriarchical elephant herd walks up-stream to bathe, wallow in the mud, and drink. All family herds are led by a large, elderly female. The other females are usually all related to the matriarch, i.e., sister and younger females who help raise and protect the smaller members and babies. There may be young males who contribute to the care in the herd, but they are usually driven out when they reach approximately 8 years oif age. [Big Tom's, Hwange NP, Zimbabwe].
