The relationship between ‘us’ and ‘them’ is complex. Can a friendship truly exist? And it’s in their eyes, that we see, how much have we succeeded in finding a middle ground.
Elephants might be mistaken for being gentle giants, however, in the wild, it’s best to avoid them. Steer clear from their path. A loud trumpeting roar is enough to stop you dead in your tracks. And it will be sounded a good kilometre ahead of the time – you actually reach them. In a sharp contrast, this trained elephant didn’t sound a warning. Although, the elephant knows we’re looking at him, he looks away. And yet, it’s evident he knows we’re looking.
Along the banks of the Lake Tjörnin, dozens of birds fly in for a free lunch. Most of them aren’t afraid of humans. Most humans enjoy feeding them. And yet, if one looks closely, there is a sense of hesitancy. A slight hint of distrust. The same look of looking somewhere else, whilst knowing you’re looking at them.
And then, there are the big cats. They’re not afraid. Or at least that’s what they want us to believe. In captivity or not. Don’t look at them. Look away. There’s just a fence between you and them.
The countenance is the portrait of the soul,
and the eyes mark its intentions.
– Marcus Tullius Cicero
Lovely shots! Apt for the theme
Thanks! 🙂
Lovely reflection on nature in its natural, untamed state. I happen to be a fan of elephants as I enjoy their range of emotional expression. However, I never get too close. xo
Thanks so much! Elephants are beautiful. And from what I’ve heard, very smart. It’s wise not to get too close. Unless, the elephant is trained. 🙂
I love Bangkok at night. The baby elephants come by the restaurants and of course, you only see the riders’ legs at the top of the doorway. Everyone stops chewing to go out and say hello. If you get a chance to go elephant riding, I highly recommend it. xo
Really? We missed that one out. I’m terrified on heights and wobbly carriers. I’ve sat on a camel and didn’t find it enjoyable. Most safaris have an option of an elephant ride. They get you deeper into the forest. But, animal-animal interaction if unpredictable. Most tigers won’t attack an elephant. But, I’m not brave enough to risk it. 🙂
Lovely shots and quotes.
Thank you so much, Indira. 🙂
I used an elephant too – but one we met in Africa, Great minds – love the cheetah image
I do believe they are gentle animals. Intelligent, I hear. However, in the wild, it’s hard to say or predict anything. 🙂
Very true. They are also very family orientated. I have so many images of mother and baby… Just don’t get in between them that’s when trouble starts
Agreed. We almost did, accidentally. Never seen forest guards so scared. It was a tense moment. Fortunately, we spotted a watchtower ahead. After a while, we walked away. I highly doubt we would have ever been able to outrun an angry mother elephant on open grasslands. 🙂
On foot definitely not… We had a few close encounters ourselves one where the driver just backed away and knew already it wasn’t worth the risk. I think the nails are also very angry when it comes to breading time… Such amazing memories though. Have you seen my Kruger national park post?
Nope! Will check it out. 🙂
Look forward to your feedback
Beautiful photos of wildlife. Brings back happy memories of riding on an elephant and a camel. I’ve never ridden on a cheetah, though! 🙂
Haha! Now, would you really want to ride a cheetah? 120 km/hr on a wobbly seat? I’d rather prefer a luxury car. 🙂
The problem with you is that you lack a sense of adventure!! 🙂 🙂
Maybe! 🙂
Well done – love the yellow eyes in the final shot – so penetrating!
Thank you Tina! 🙂
Amazing photos!
Thank you so much! 🙂