This large male Borneo pygmy elephant emerged from the back of a long shute in the tall grasses alongside the Kinabatangan river, Borneo. Becoming more difficult to find due to their dwindling numbers and fear of human interaction, the Bornean Asian elephant is one of Borneo’s big five. We sat quietly with only the electric moto keeping us in place on the river, feeling lucky to spot one at the base of one of their grass tunnels. Once he felt safe, he emerged on the banks of the river, took a drink, climbed in and crossed right in front of us. I had never seen an elephant swim. Their trunk makes an impressive snorkel. More needs to be done to preserve these animals and their beautiful lands.

Borneo 2018

Limited edition fine art print of 100

Photo © copyright by Derek Nielsen