African elephant
Tsavo East National Park
Kenya

This normally light grey elephant has rolled in muddy water and then covered herself with the clay dusty soil found in Tsavo East National Park. This coating protects her skin from sun and insects. Because of the soil, Tsavo East National Park is famous for its "red" elephants.

This photograph was taken while on foot near a watering hold. We were able to make a fairly close approach to the elephants who were engaged in their bathing ritual. In the background, you can see an elephant newly coated in dark black mud.

Sunday Challenge: Animals in the Wild

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