On a recent trip to Kruger Park in early August, about 4 km before Shimuwini Camp, we were charged and rammed by an elephant. The elephant came charging out of thick bush from the side while we were watching the rest of the herd cross about 30 m in front of us. The vehicle was switched off and we were in no way a threat. By the time we noticed the charging elephant it was too late to start the vehicle and move to safety.
 

I did however manage to get the vehicle started and get away from a second charge, now with two elephants in hot pursuit after us for the next 50 m. The culprit was a young male adolescent with a serious attitude problem. I believe that the last of this elephant has not been heard of.
 
Professor Rudi van Aarde director of the Conservation Ecology Research Unit at the University of Pretoria and author of Elephants: Facts and Fables, responds:

 
Young (12 to 15 years of age) often behave in a boisterous manner when in a confusing situation. For example a confusing situation could be a vehicle on the side of the road, possibly right in the elephant’s path, while he is roaming in proximity but somewhat away from his natal group.
 
I have two questions regarding this incident:

1. Is there such a thing as a “rogue” elephant that will attack and charge unprovoked?
No, there is no such thing … though bulls usually older than 22 years of age do experience a period of “musth” that is associated with heightened sexual activities that may be interpreted as aggression. An attack is usually provoked but may be redirected as part of displacement behaviour – the equivalent to a person slamming a door when provoked by another person.
 
2. I have always been taught since very young that when an animal is approached, it is best to switch the vehicle off and be as quiet as possible so as not to scare the animal off. Does this rule apply to elephants?
There are no rules. I keep mine running and always move out of their way and off the distinct paths they use. I do prefer to keep a safe distance. I seldom approach elephants but on occasion I do allow them to approach me. 

 

 
The tusk of this elephant made a neat small hole just below the shattered window. Maybe the elephant just didn’t like the Dr Evil logo on the window of our car!
… For that I do not blame the elephant!