It’s the end of the second day and the final truckload of elephant are arriving at Zinave National Park.
The truck backs up to the release point, opening a panel in the truck roof to check on the animals. The good news is that they are all still standing and in good condition, but because what is waiting for them outside is unknown to the elephant, the crew has to encourage the elephants to leave the truck.
The team uses soothing voices or low whistles to reassure them. It is an incredible tense moment as the elephants are unsure of their surroundings and can become agitated, so everyone needs to stay out of way. Here two females wander out and head straight for the cover of the trees.
There will be relief and celebrations all round at the end of another successful translocation, with all the elephants alive and well.
