Elephants never forget, according to the saying – and if that’s true, Makhavusi’s best pal has some making up to do.
His human handler Marupia Chivhanga recently returned from a month-long holiday – and Mak has barely left his side since.
Photographer Sam Turley, who captured these images of the unlikely friendship, said: “Marupia walked over to Mak and Mak gave him a full inspection with his trunk.
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“Marupia then gently placed his forehead on Mak’s front leg and as a greeting, Mak let out the longest, deepest rumble I have ever heard – a greeting I thought was only for the closest of elephant family members.”
Marupia, who spends all day every day with 43-year-old Mak, formed a unique bond with the elephant at wildlife conservation centre Imire, in Zimbabwe.
Rescuers saved him from being sold to a zoo as a calf. Sam added: “Mak has formed some incredible relationships with conservancy staff. He visibly enjoys interacting with Marupia and it’s clear the feeling is mutual.
“As Mak has never had a herd, Marupia has become a part of his unconventional herd.”
