#022 - Sheltered

Serengeti, Tanzania - 2022
 
Elephants are renowned for their intelligence, affection, and profound protectiveness of their young. The photograph titled “Sheltered” beautifully captures a moment when two young elephants sought comfort and security beneath the body of an adult, reflecting the deep family bonds that define these majestic animals.
 
While traveling south from Serengeti National Park, we rounded a bend in the road and were unexpectedly confronted by a family group of elephants. Our sudden appearance startled the family, causing a brief moment of panic as the elephants reacted to our presence. The young calves, sensing the disturbance, instinctively sought refuge beneath the protection of an adult.
 
The group quickly realised that we were no threat and as the initial fear wore off, the curiosity of the young elephants began to emerge. They slowly ventured out from the safety of the adult's shelter, their inquisitive eyes peeking out to get a better look at us. It was in this transition from fear to fascination that I saw a perfect opportunity to capture a tender and intimate scene. I quickly took the photograph of the two young elephants nestled beneath the adult, their wide eyes reflecting a mix of curiosity and caution.