Elephant Bonus Photos

With commentary.

I took so many photos at the Nature Elephant Park that I had to whittle it down for the post. Here are a few extras:

First, photos that make me laugh.

This photos reminds me so much of the “revolutionary home haircutting system” the Flowbee, that I chuckle every time.

Out tour guide was very passionate about the elephants… and passionate about photography. He was determined to get the best shot and he did not quit until he did (as in, wouldn’t give the camera back). He knew all the angles and just what to do to make a photo “Beautiful!” This was one that didn’t turn out quite like he was hoping.

Apparently, I’m not a very skilled elephant bather. I didn’t realize it until reviewing the photos… but in nearly everyone I miss the elephant by a good two feet. Oops! Hilarious.

Meet Bruno, poor poor Bruno. Bruno was a sweet Italian man who spoke little English. He somehow mistakenly joined our elephant group while intending to join a different group for mountain biking. Of course, he didn’t mention anything until we’d reached our destination. When the mistake was uncovered Molly asked, “Did you think biker right from the beginning? I did.” I said, “Um, no. I just assumed that was his elephant bathing outfit!”

Now a photo that makes me sad:

This elephant was not cared for properly. The bulls were allowed to mount her so frequently that she broke her hip! It seems as though she’s in a lot of pain, but the park is reluctant to euthanize her. This is because when elephants are really and truly in pain, they will refuse to walk. She’s up and about so she’s doing ok for the time being.

And some others:

Flowers in the garden.

A herd of these guys live here too.

Our tour guide set up this shot:

This one too:

Yep, I stuck my hand in there.

Scrubbing some buns. I’m a marginally bettter bun scrubber than I am splasher.

Molly’s a good splasher.

This was my first experience elephant feeding. I was a bit timid at first… but it’s quite exciting!

Molly and I are out in the water in this shot. I’m mostly terrified that I’m going to drop my camera or fall in the water… but I’m also glad I finally got it back from our tour guide.

And have I mentioned that when Lek first began her efforts to save the elephants, she had to go into hiding? Going up against the illegal logging industry and the very lucrative elephant tourist industry was a very dangerous endeavor. What an amazing woman to continue with her efforts when faced with such opposition.

xo, jill