A birth or recent birth of any animal is something that is rarely seen on a safari. So when we followed the sight of vultures dropping to the earth, we had expected to find the remains of a kill, but were rewarded with something far better.
Turning off-road and slowly heading through the stands of wild sage, we saw a large elephant cow standing over her newborn calf. With the afterbirth still clearly visible, she stood watch as her new arrival battled to try and stand. Time and again the calf would attempt to stand, only to fall over onto its side again.
The mother, who was obviously an experienced female, was quick to react and gently nudge the calf with her foot and steer it with her trunk. After about half an hour, we watched as the calf raised its head and trunk in a dramatic attempt to stand, which eventually paid off and we watched its first few unsteady steps as it swayed next to its mother, reaching vaguely in the direction of her front legs in search of milk.
When we left the scene the calf was standing on very uneasy legs next to its mother, leaning for support against her massive legs. An incredible sight to see and one that will not easily be repeated.