An African elephant showed off his playful side, proving that even at a towering 13 feet, you’re never too big to enjoy a mud bath.
Captured by a photographer at a South African game reserve, the adult bull elephant delighted in rolling and splashing around, completely covering himself in mud.
The massive splashes created by his full weight were as impressive as his size, but this was more than just a playful moment.
Mud baths help elephants cool their skin, protect against parasites, and shield themselves from the sun’s intense UV rays.
Photographer Anette Mossbacher, originally from Germany and now residing in Switzerland, observed the scene at Madikwe Game Reserve.
She followed two male elephants heading to the mud holes and was rewarded with a rare spectacle.
“It was so much fun watching this elephant enjoy his mud bath,” Mossbacher shared. “He seemed so happy, splashing with all four legs to make sure his tummy was completely covered. He even had what looked like a smile on his face!”
Mossbacher added that the elephant spent about 30 minutes reveling in the mud, using his trunk to clean his ears and eyes afterward.
At one point, he noticed the photographer and mock-charged for a few meters before turning his attention to his companion, who was still bathing out of sight.
This joyful display served as a reminder of how essential these baths are for elephants, combining practical benefits with moments of pure bliss.
