Asian Elephant up close
The Sri Lankan subspecies is the largest and also the darkest of the Asian elephants, with patches of depigmentation on its ears, face, trunk and belly. Once found throughout the island, these elephants are now being pushed into smaller areas as development activities clear forests and disrupt their ancient migratory routes. This image was taken at Bundala National Nature Reserve where a large number of these elephants roam wild. This one got up close and personal!
Location: Bundala NNR Sri Lanka
Photographer: Dave Saunders