Borneo Pygmy Elephant (6)

This elephant had a hard time climbing back onto the muddy riverbank. It looks almost gracious on this image!

Borneo Pygmy Elephant (5)

Elephants would come to the riverside by the end of the day, when the sun is not scorching. They are good swimmers, leaving most of their body in the water, the trump popping up like a snorkel.

Borneo Pygmy Elephant (4)

A bull Borneo pygmy elephant with his impressive tusks.

Borneo Pygmy Elephant (3)

As Borneo pygmy elephant live in herd, they follow a migratory pattern in search of food. While some lands along the Kinabatangan river have been earmarked as sanctuary, others belong to palm plantation owners that have the right to convert the existing forest into plantation. Some NGOs have been buying lands to ensure that migratory path of the elephants are maintain but that takes time and money.

Borneo Pygmy Elephant (2)

Female Borneo pygmy elephant by the riverbank.

Based on a study made in 2010, the total population of Borneo pygmy elephants is estimated at 2'000. They live in the North / Northeastern part of Borneo and travel along migratory routes in herds that can count up to 50 animals.

Borneo Pygmy Elephant - Kinabatangan River (1)

Just after arriving at the Sukau Rainforest Lodge, we are being told that a herd of Borneo pygmy elephants had been spotted not far from the lodge. In order not to miss this opportunity, a boat is promptly organized and, shortly after the welcome drink and a quick drop of the luggage in our rooms, we are back out on the river full of excitement to try to sight this rare animal. Lucky we were. Elephants are following migration paths and we just happened to arrive when they were enjoying the fresh grass by the riverside...