Climb-Upon

A calf clambering onto another calf or juvenile who is lying down. A calf or juvenile lying down, or getting down on its knees, is an invitation to younger individuals to climb on top. Young elephants enjoy this game of Climb-Upon and, in a big pile, they typically wiggle, squirm and kick out with their legs.

References: Lee 1986; Moss 1988; Poole 1996: 155, 156 illustration; Poole & Granli 2003; Poole & Granli 2011 [Wiggling]. (Full reference list)

This behavior occurs in the following context(s): Social Play

Climb-Upon

Context: Social Play (1)

Three male calves (between the ages of 18 months to 4 years old) from Big Mama's family at play. A 2 year old male lies down and permits the other two to Climb-Upon. An 18 month old male calf arrives first and begins to climb on him. The older male walks over, bends down and Tusks the 2 year old calf in his face and then lies down on top of him. Meanwhile the 18 month old runs around and begins Sparring with the two on the ground. He gets an erection as he plays and then climbs around behind them and Mounts the pile of males in a Climb-Upon. They all get to their feet. There is no audio. (Maasai Mara, Kenya)

Climb-Upon

Context: Social Play (2)

Three male calves from Big Mama's family play together engaging in a game of Pushing and Climb-Upon. The oldest male, a 4 year old is lying down while the younger two climb on him and Push his. Eventually he seems to get fed up and stands up and Pushes the pusher back. Appearing hesitant the little male engages in Trunk-Sucking. (Maasai Mara, Kenya)

Climb-Upon

Context: Social Play (3)

At least from the newborn's perspective a mother’s mud-wallow is an opportunity to Climb-Upon. (Maasai Mara, Kenya)

Climb-Upon

Context: Social Play (3)

The AA family is Resting and Dusting. An infant and a juvenile female are playing a game of Climb-Upon. Note that as soon as the infant stops playing the older calf gets to her feet. (Amboseli, Kenya)