A mischievous elephant was filmed attempting to raid a food van at a Mana Pools, Zimbabwe campsite.
Captured by 45-year-old Willem Bakhuys Roozeboom, the footage shows the elephant using its trunk to inspect the vehicle in hopes of accessing the food inside. Despite its efforts, the van was too secure for the determined animal.
Roozeboom, who manages the safari camp, explained that elephants are often drawn to the scent of fruit and will go to great lengths to get it.
Fortunately, this particular elephant soon lost interest and turned its attention to a nearby leafy branch for a snack.
“This elephant visits the campsite almost daily,” Roozeboom shared. “He calmly wanders around, sniffing cars, tents, and laundry. He remains relaxed as long as you give him space and don’t make any sudden movements.”
Though the elephant was aware of Roozeboom’s presence, it remained focused on the food. Roozeboom added, “He knew I was there the whole time but didn’t pay me any mind as long as I respected his space. He just wanted the fruits and vegetables.”
Roozeboom’s girlfriend, Iris Breeman, can be seen in the video shutting the back of their truck to prevent the elephant from investigating further. Roozeboom mentioned that he tried to shoo the animal away gently, but it was unfazed.
“It’s his space more than ours,” Roozeboom explained. “The last thing I wanted was to upset him, so we just let him be and accepted whatever the outcome might be.”
The encounter serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting wildlife in their natural habitat, especially in areas where humans and animals coexist closely.
Read more Elephant News.
