Swimming

An elephant propelling him or herself through water using fore- and hindlegs.

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

This behavior occurs in the following context(s): Maintenance

Swimming

Context: Maintenance (1)

A family of elephants is crossing Enkongo Narok Swamp. Some of the elephants are tall enough to walk most of the way, others must Swim. (Amboseli, Kenya)

Swimming

Context: Maintenance (2)

Angelina leads her newborn twins (circled) into the deep Enkongo Narok swamp. Her intention appeared to be to Swim to the other side to meet Abra, but one of the twins mistakenly follows the large male who is in association with them. The male attacks the twin tusking and kicking it. Angelina rescues the twin and turns back. (Amboseli, Kenya)

Swimming

Context: Maintenance (3)

A family of elephants Swims from the east side of Enkongo Narok Swamp to the little island next to Observation Hill. At on point even the adults are Swimming and using their trunks as snorkels. Once they reach the island they climb up and begin feeding. (Amboseli, Kenya)