During a safari in South Africa’s Nambiti Game Reserve, photographer Joseph Anthony captured an unusual moment when a bull elephant stumbled after a tense encounter with another male.
The two young elephants were engaged in a display of dominance, raising their trunks and flaring their ears to assert their place within the herd.
Shortly after the confrontation, one of the elephants lost its footing while running back to rejoin its family, falling to its knees in what Anthony described as a “momentary fall from grace.” The elephant quickly recovered and continued on its way.
Anthony, who witnessed the scene alongside experienced guides, noted how rare the moment was. “The guides all said this was one of the top five wildlife moments to witness and capture,” he said.
“It was surprising to see such a majestic creature stumble, especially while looking through my viewfinder.”
While animals like cheetahs and antelope occasionally misstep, Anthony remarked that seeing an elephant trip was a truly unique and endearing sight.
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