BREAKING: A new book reveals the urgent plight of Africa’s rarest elephants, the “super tuskers,” with fewer than 30 remaining in the wild. Photographed by renowned wildlife photographer Federico Veronesi, these majestic creatures face an escalating threat from poaching and habitat loss.
In his latest work, “Walk the Earth,” Veronesi captures the stunning beauty of these giants, whose tusks can weigh over 100 pounds (45 kilograms) each and often drag along the ground. This genetic anomaly makes them a target for poachers, and the urgency of their situation cannot be overstated.
According to the Tsavo Trust, which monitors elephant populations in Kenya’s Tsavo Conservation Area, the numbers of these magnificent animals are dwindling rapidly. Most surviving super tuskers are located in southern Kenya, where Veronesi has dedicated years to tracking and photographing them.
Veronesi’s fascination with African wildlife began in his childhood in Italy, and it ultimately brought him to Kenya, where he now calls home. He describes the elephants as “the last witnesses of a world before humans took over the Earth.” His photographs are not just images; they are a call to action against the threats these elephants face.
In an emotional reflection, Veronesi recalls his first encounter with Tim, a legendary super tusker of Amboseli National Park, in 2010. “We were waiting as the elephants made their daily walk from the woodlands to the marsh,” he said. “When this massive bull appeared with tusks so long, they nearly touched the ground.” This moment, he notes, felt like a childhood dream realized.
Veronesi aims to showcase various aspects of elephant life in his book—courtship, social interactions, and the diverse habitats they inhabit across Africa, from Namibia’s deserts to Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater. His favorite image features Balguda, “probably the greatest tusker alive at the moment.” After years of searching, he finally spotted Balguda in a remote part of Tsavo in August 2023.
“I still can’t believe that I finally managed to see and photograph him,” Veronesi stated. “The image of him walking in the riverbed will probably remain with me forever.” He emphasizes that his work is not only about capturing images but also about fostering a deep connection between viewers and these magnificent animals.
Through his photography, Veronesi has long contributed to wildlife conservation, donating images to various organizations and raising awareness about the ivory trade. His images serve as a poignant reminder of the beauty and intelligence of elephants. “I want people to connect with the animal, to look into its soul,” he asserts.
As the world watches the fate of these magnificent creatures hang in the balance, Veronesi’s work shines a light on their critical situation. The ongoing threats from poaching and habitat destruction underscore the need for urgent conservation efforts.
The release of “Walk the Earth” is a crucial moment for raising awareness about the fate of the super tuskers. As their numbers dwindle, the time to act is now. Veronesi’s passionate advocacy and stunning photography serve as both a tribute and a warning that these giants may soon vanish from our world.
Readers are encouraged to share this urgent message and contribute to conservation efforts to protect the few remaining super tuskers. The call to action is clear: without immediate intervention, these extraordinary animals could soon be lost forever.
