The bond between a mother and child is unbreakable, and that holds true for animals too. This heartwarming story captures the incredible connection between a mother elephant and her newborn.
Just like human moms are there to catch us when we take our first steps, this mother elephant was there for her baby’s wobbly beginnings.
Charl Stols had the rare chance to witness and capture this beautiful moment during a boat ride on the Chobe River in Botswana. He spotted the duo as they approached the river for a drink. Through his lens, Charl reminded the world that a mother’s love isn’t just a human trait—it’s universal.
“The calf looked only a few hours old,” Charl shared with CAETRS. “It was still pink and unsteady on its feet. At the water’s edge, it stumbled several times, and each time, the mother gently lifted it up with her trunk and feet.”
The scene was both adorable and deeply moving for Charl.
“It was truly special,” he said. “There are plenty of elephants in Chobe, but that must have been the youngest I’ve ever seen. And to my surprise, they even crossed the river to an island. The little one swam the whole way!”
This tender moment between mother and baby left a lasting impression on Charl and everyone lucky enough to see his photos.