In an extraordinary scene, a ghostly white elephant emerged from a desert oasis, startling a herd of springbok at Etosha National Park in Namibia.
The abundant clay in the watering hole caused this striking transformation of the elephant’s typically grey skin.
The massive bull elephant, now pale in color, playfully charged at the antelope near the Nebrowni watering hole in the northwest section of the park, sending them scattering as it splashed through the water.
Anja Denker, a 51-year-old visual artist and wildlife photographer from Windhoek, Namibia, captured this breathtaking moment during a visit to the park, where she was serving as a photographic guide. Denker described the elephant’s energetic behavior:
“The elephant had a great time splashing in the water and flinging mud, soaking a few unsuspecting springbok in the process,” she shared. “He seemed to be enjoying himself, drenching the antelope while stirring up the water with his feet.”
Etosha National Park, one of the world’s premier wildlife destinations, is a hotspot for wildlife photographers and tourists seeking an authentic safari experience.
However, visitors are reminded to stay inside their vehicles unless in designated fenced-off camping areas, as the park is home to a variety of predators, some of which are expertly camouflaged.
The desert oasis is the lifeblood of Etosha, especially during the dry season from September to October when animals like elephants, zebras, lions, antelopes, and giraffes gather to cool off during the extreme heat.
