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“I have seen a herd of elephant travelling through dense native forest…pacing along as if they had an appointment at the end of the world” Isaak Dinesen
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No dense forest here, only a rare scatter of thorn trees on the Maasai Mara plains. And yet early one December morning, when we found ourselves in the path of an elephant herd, the sense of their concerted purpose flowed round us like a slow tide. They did move as one – elders, adolescents, infants. And so softly too. An elephant mirage then.
As they passed on by, not one member of the herd showed any reaction to our presence. And so there was that moment – the urge to follow, to walk with elephants, pace for pace. How astonishing might that be? (Or how invasive).
Of course we were not on foot, but in a truck with our driver-guide, Dan. He drove quietly away and parked on a ridge above the thorn trees; even suggested we should get out and eat our picnic breakfast while we watched the herd fan out below us.
Some members climbed over our ridge, but again seemed not to acknowledge our existence.
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“The herd moves as one, yet each elephant knows its place.” African saying.
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At sundown the herd met up with us again, travelling at the same slow, purposeful pace, but now in the opposite direction. We were on our way back to camp. Dan stopped the truck while they moved on and on around us. So close we felt their presence as they passed. The musky smell of them.
copyright 2026 Tish Farrell
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Lens-Artists: favourite quotes illustrated This week Ann-Christine asks us to illustrate our favourite quotations (No more than 5 photos). She has some stunning examples. Go see!
So wonderful Tish! I remember thinking as we traveled in Africa that every one of us should have that opportunity. The support for them would grow by leaps and bounds. They are such magnificent creatures and their intelligence and caring for each other is well-documented. If only more people would listen. I love when you feature them – your time there must have been so amazing.
I agree with all those thoughts, Tina. And yes, those years in Kenya and Zambia were such a gift.
What a great tribute to these wonderful animals. Your pictures are stunning.
Many thanks, Anne.
What an incredible experience—being that close must have felt almost surreal. Your words and images really capture their quiet presence and dignity
Many thanks, Lize. It was one of many times in Africa when one wondered if one was actually awake.
Tish, It must have been thrilling to see these magnificent elephants as they walked together as a herd. Your images are amazing.
It was a very extraordinary day, Beth. Thank you.
What a magical experience to be so absorbed in this herd
To be honest, Sarah, it was almost too much to absorb. Especially the moment when were eating our packed breakfast out in the open – peeling hard boiled eggs while watching approaching elephants.
Yes, I can see how it would be!
What a marvellou bringing together of words and images. What thrilling moments to see this quiet and stately procession.
Thanks, Margaret. Quiet and stately are definitely the right words.
What a great choice for the challenge! The photos and quotes are excellent.
Wonderful melding of words and images, Tish!
Aren’t elephants so gorgeous and such loyalty between them. It’s certainly a privilege to share their environment. Wonderfully told.