This is the adorable moment a baby elephant tries to head a tourist bus at its most ferocious charge before thinking more and running back to its mother.
The 12-month-old calf was caught on camera during a full-on at the tourists visiting Mfuwe Lodge in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia.
It even tries to jump up on its hind legs to practice its scariest moves.
But the rest of the herd continued to graze, unconcerned with its efforts.
And when the calf realizes itself, it thinks better of acting boldly – and spinning and running towards its mother as fast as it can.
Amy Alderman, from the Bushcamp Company, which runs the photographic safaris, said: ‘It’s quite unusual to see a young calf behaving like this.
‘Newborn babies usually stay very close to their mothers’ tummy until they are about a year old, and this little boy seems brave enough to take his first steps in the world.
‘He even managed a little jump, which is no feat for an elephant.
‘He’s a bit boisterous and probably wants to see what he can get away with, pushing the boundaries.
‘But as the rest of the herd completely ignores the tourists and the baby’s attempts to scare them off, it clearly still needs its mother – because it won’t be long before it runs back to her!
‘I love watching elephants, especially when the herd has babies of this age.
‘It’s lovely to watch them try to find their feet and learn how to use their trunks.’
Discussion about this post