The enjoyment of the summer holiday period has been in full swing in the southern hemisphere over the last few weeks, and we’re not just talking amongst humans. After reviewing some recent camera trap footage from Mozambique’s Zinave National Park, it seems as though the four-legged residents there got the same memo.
A Scorching Summer
In sub-tropical regions like Zinave, it is not uncommon for temperatures to touch the mid-40 degrees Celsius during the peak of summer. As uncomfortable as this is for humans, so too is it for the local wildlife. The result is that many of the park’s birds and animals will seek whatever refuge they can find during the heat of the day.
For many water-loving wildlife like buffalo, elephant and rhino, it is not uncommon to see them making their way down to the local watering hole during the heat of the day. As seen in the camera trap images, these animals will lather themselves in thick mud, which helps to protect their skin from the harsh African sun. The cool layer of mud also helps to regulate their body temperature.
Elephants In The Heat
Due to the harsh and hot environment the African elephant typically lives in, their bodies have been built to handle the heat. Their wrinkly skin traps moisture from mud or water, which helps to cool them down as they move through the bush. Who would have thought that having so many wrinkles would be such a beneficial thing?
To further help dissipate body heat during those hot summer days, elephants can often be seen flapping their ears. If you are lucky enough to have gotten a close-up glimpse behind an elephant’s ears, you might have noticed that they are covered with a complex network of blood vessels. These lie close to the surface, and the flapping of their ears can help to lower blood temperature by as much as 10 degrees.
A Flourishing Ecosystem
With the support of Mozambique’s National Administration for Conservation Areas (ANAC) and Peace Parks Foundation Seeing images like the above showcases just how far Zinave has come. From a once desolate and quiet park to one that is now filled with animals in every direction, this national park serves as a fantastic reminder as to how hard work, passion and dedication can achieve remarkable conservation success.
