21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Desert-dwelling elephants

Namibia's desert-dwelling elephants of the Northern Namib Desert in Namibia's Kunene Region live in a unique environment. Desert dwelling elephants are found in only two places in Africa: in Namibia and in Mali. They are not a separate species from savannah elephants (Loxodonta africana)but have adapted to the desert environment, they are smaller with longer legs and larger feet. They also live in smaller herd. They must travel long distances, up to 70km (45miles), to reach sources of water and food. They have been designated as top priority for protection by the IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature).

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 08.2022
Date Uploaded: 11.2023
Photo Location: Kunene region, Namibia
Camera: FC3582
Copyright: © ALESSANDRA MENICONZI