In an unexpected turn of events, two male elephants in Thailand have mended their friendship after weeks of conflict over a female companion.
Kaenggreang and Siplor put their rivalry aside by simply touching trunks, demonstrating the power of camaraderie among these majestic creatures.
The dispute began when Siplor, a smaller and younger elephant, challenged the more extensive and more experienced Kaenggreang for the affection of a female in their herd.
Park rangers reported that the elephants observed each other from afar and even engaged in a tusk-bumping altercation two weeks prior.
On Sunday, the two seemingly resolved, shaking trunks in a sign of peace. Staff at the Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary, where the elephants reside, will continue to monitor their interactions to ensure the truce holds.
Panya Wajade, a park employee, remarked, “These two elephants have been squaring up to each other and fighting for the last few weeks. It’s nice to see they have made friends again, but the wildlife team will ensure that is the case.”
Elephants are known for their intricate social structures and hierarchies within their communities.
Female elephants form matriarchal herds, while males typically leave the family around 12 to 15 to live independently or join other bulls. Males and females only come together during mating season or estrus.
When a male approaches a female in estrus, she may initially be cautious but will walk with him if interested.
The male may pursue her if she retreats and fends off other suitors. The pair may touch trunks before mating, with the male mounting the female from behind in an almost vertical position.
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