Scratch-with-Object

Using the distal portion of the trunk, or the finger of the trunk to grasp an object (e.g. a stick) to scratch the body or to remove a tick. Alternatively placing the body in a position so as to use an object to scratch a specific part of the body, such as placing the body so as to insert a branch into the orifice of the ear.

References: Poole & Granli 2021. (Full reference list)

This behavior occurs in the following context(s): Foraging & Comfort Technique

Scratch-with-Object

Context: Foraging & Comfort Technique (1)

Matriarch, Provocadora, gf0012, is concerned about us and is engaged in Standing-Tall, Periscope-Trunk and Displacement-Grooming. She uses a trunkful of vegetation and dirt to scratch the inside of her ear. (Gorongosa, Mozambique)

Scratch-with-Object

Context: Foraging & Comfort Technique (2)

Adult female Zabina, gf0008, uses her trunk to scratch her ear and her forefoot to scratch her belly. (Gorongosa, Mozambique)

Scratch-with-Object

Context: Foraging & Comfort Technique (3)

Matriarch, Provocadora, gf0012, uses her trunk to scratch her ear. (Gorongosa, Mozambique)

Scratch-with-Object

Context: Foraging & Comfort Technique (4)

A young male uses his trunk to scratch his ear and when that doesn't satisfy him he walks over to a branch and purposely maneuvers himself into the right position to use the branch to scratch his ear or face. (Maasai Mara, Kenya)

Scratch-with-Object

Context: Foraging & Comfort Technique (5)

Liaqat is guarding Ozara and has a persistent itch between his forelegs. He uses his trunk to scratch it and then finds a stick and, holding it delicately with his trunk-fingers he uses it to scratch the itch again. This is an example of tool use. (Amboseli, Kenya)