Elephants may be big, but this black rhino was not in the mood for any nonsense despite the size difference.
These incredible photos capture the duel between two arrogant teenage elephants and a female black rhino at a waterhole in Etosha National Park in Namibia.
The two African species are often civil to each other, but the rhino’s arrival has clearly upset the juvenile elephants.
A confrontation ensued between the two elephants and the rhinoceros. But the latter elephant, though smaller, stood her ground – and even chased one of the elephants away.
The images were taken by wildlife photographer Andrew Forsyth, who suggested that once the rhino arrived, a peaceful scene would ensue.
Taken to tusk: Elephants may be big, but this black rhino wasn’t in the mood for any nonsenseA juvenile elephant attempts to intimidate a black rhino, but the rhino stands her groundOff you go: The rhino turns the tables and sees the elephant off, as the rest of the herd stand nearbyOne of the elephants lifts its front leg, threateningly, but the rhino stands her ground and just stares at it
The stocky rhino faces down one of the elephants across the rocky ground by the watering holeOne of the elephants charges the rhino, which stands firm with its head downThe size difference between the two animals is readily apparent in this photographOne of the elephants and the rhino move their confrontation into the bushes
An elephant kicks up a cloud of dust as the rhino looks impassively at itThe rhino charges the elephant, clearly not in the mood for any disobedienceThe rhino appears here to be using a very small bush as a hiding spot, but it’s been found outRhinos are incredibly powerful animals, more than capable of defending themselves against Africa’s predatorsThe water hole in Namibia is a popular one with the local animals – and a great spot for photographersFully grown elephants rarely have any trouble from other animals on the savannah. In a few years’ time this confrontation would probably have a different outcomeThe rhino walks confidently towards the elephant, which is flapping its ears to intimidate it
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