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BENNIE

We collared Bennie in 2021 to keep him and the Ugab West elephants safe. Bennie is the largest bull in the Ugab River and his dominance is felt by everybody, even us non-proboscidean creatures.

The Ugab River is his chosen home and he has been residing here ever since we’ve come to know him. He does venture far west and east depending on the seasons and when he is in musth (the reproductive state of a male elephant). He possibly moved into the Ugab River before we got to work here. In the very beginning, Bennie wasn’t as relaxed and experienced around people and he often mock-charged. It’s fantastic to see how he relaxed and learned to trust over time.

Before Voortrekker was killed in 2019, Bennie started to fight with him when they were in musth. During these fights, Bennie emerged with many deep scars and Voortrekker lost a tusk! However, Voortrekker remained the dominant bull. Since his death, Bennie took the spot as the main breeding bull in the Ugab River. His appearance changed and he grows fast – year by year.

His gentle and careful manner means that he doesn’t like to get himself into trouble. He is wise enough to avoid unnecessary danger. His presence in the Ugab River is essential as he naturally became the guardian of the other young male elephants. He takes over a father role to all teenage bulls to teach them respect, boundaries and how to behave in a way that keeps them safe in a world dominated by people.

There is something very, very special about observing a bull like Bennie. It’s calming and awe-inspiring to see this huge and powerful animal move about so thoughtfully and always respectfully towards every other living being.

His protection is of utmost importance and EHRA has dedicated all efforts to keeping this wonderful elephant safe.