One of the few bright spots in this uncommonly dry February that we find ourselves in, has been being able to observe a certain young elephant by the name of Cathy. Although only ten years old, Cathy has consistently displayed the characteristics of a future matriarch. Every time we come across the CB family, which she belongs to, she immediately catches our attention with her antics. She is exceptionally loquacious and has especially taken an interest in being an allomother to all of the calves in the family.
Any time there is a skirmish amongst the calves, Cathy is sure to be found pacifying both parties until all is calm again. Aside from her innate motherly qualities that she regularly displays, it is her assertiveness that truly defines her. She is the first to greet arriving family members, she already gives “Let’s Go” rumbles to move the family along, and she can often be seen giving “Contact Calls” to get in touch with distant family members. This may not seem too significant, but let me remind you that she’s 10! This family has many older, dominant females and yet this young, precocious female has shown matriarchal attributes that far exceed her years.
Until next time!
Cheers, Blake (Murray)
Cathy with three calves from the CB family. She is the largest one, second from the right. (Photo: Blake Murray)
Amboseli elephants dusting (Photo: P. Granli)
3 Comments
Hi Blake,
Very interesting to hear about such a young female behaving that way. It’s such a rare opportunity these days to see an intact population and social structure like in Amboseli where a young female like Cathy has the older adults to observe and develop leadership skills to be a good matriarch.
Looking forward to future updates.
Wow, I hope Cathy becomes a true and great matriarch in the future. It is amazing at such a young age she is doing so much.
Thanks so much for the updates, Blake!! And best wishes to Cathy! Seems like she knows what she wants and has big plans for the future!!