A wild elephant’s morning routine has been captured in a unique GoPro video, showing behaviors that resemble human waking habits.
The footage was recorded by wildlife photographer Christof Schoeman at Greater Kruger National Park in South Africa.
Schoeman strategically placed the camera atop a termite mound, which provided a perfect vantage point to film a bull elephant stirring from a deep sleep.
The video captures the elephant slowly rising to its feet, stretching, and even letting out a wide yawn — movements strikingly similar to those of a person waking up.
After standing still for a few moments, the elephant noticed the camera and approached it out of curiosity. Using its trunk, the animal lunged toward the GoPro, tossed gravel at it, and eventually knocked it to the ground.
Elephants, once widespread across Africa, have seen their numbers diminish significantly due to habitat loss and poaching.
However, South Africa’s conservation efforts have led to a remarkable recovery. Protected areas such as Addo Elephant National Park and Kruger National Park now house thriving populations.
Thanks to these initiatives, South Africa’s elephant population has grown from just 120 individuals across four locations in 1920 to approximately 10,000 in 40 locations today.
This success story highlights the importance of ongoing conservation work to safeguard the future of these majestic animals.
Read more Elephant News.