There comes a moment in every elephant’s life when he begins to throw his weight around—literally. Breeding rights go to the most dominant bulls, a status often decided by who commands the most presence. Although this male was still young, he was sending a clear message to the others in his vicinity by kicking up waves of dirt and chasing off his rivals.

The whole performance appeared chaotic, but there was purpose behind every movement. Among elephants, dominance is not just measured in muscle, but in timing, confidence, and the ability to hold your ground without rushing into a fight. Older bulls, those who have already proven themselves, often travel with younger males known in Amboseli as “askaris,” who follow them in the hope of learning what dominance looks like when it is tempered by years of experience.

‘The Kicker’ comes in four editioned sizes, each printed on archival pigment paper. Visit the link below to inquire about availability and pricing: https://paulnicklen.com/fineart/the-kicker/

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