Search

Africa’s Big Tuskers

Africa Big Tuskers – elephants with tusks that sweep the earth’s surface were once spread throughout the continent. The 19th century saw an unfortunate turn of events for them with ivory becoming one of Africa’s most popular trades.

These majestic and once impregnable creatures were rendered endangered. The greedy indulgence of the 19th century and continued poaching of elephants has not gone without consequence. These big tuskers are now only found in a select few location-their sorry populations now reduced to specs on our continent.

Africa's Big Tuskers - Elephant
Photograph © Tristan Govender

Among these few, is Ezulwini, a formidable bull and one of the last tuskers to roam the Greater Kruger. It’s a name befitting of such an elusive and calm elephant (Ezulwini translates to heaven). This well-mannered and graceful elephant astonished all visitors that come across him. It is no wonder why they’re intrigued by his strength and control-commanding respect wherever he goes. His defining trait, his curiosity. Always inquisitive and polite to new people and other elephants. He meanders great distances throughout the African Bush, his journey long from over.

Africa's Big Tuskers - Elephant - cover
Photograph © Tristan Govender

EcoTraining Wildlife Highlights: Ezulwini

Let’s take a look at the mightily Ezulwini. One of the last great tuskers to walk the Kruger National Park.

About the Author: 

Tristan Govender a previous EcoTraining Media Intern and Freelance Blogger.

About the Author:
Picture of Tristan Govender

Tristan Govender

Explore more

Blog

Kori Bustard Conservation: On a Collision Course with Powerlines

With its powerful build and impressive wingspan, the kori bustard is an unforgettable sight—especially in flight. Yet, despite its strength, this iconic bird faces a silent and growing danger across Africa’s open landscapes. Powerlines, nearly invisible in the air, have become a major threat, with collisions contributing to a steady decline in their population. As energy infrastructure continues to expand, researchers are racing to better understand these birds and find innovative ways to protect them—before this remarkable species disappears from our skies.

Read more
Blog

7 Signs You’re Ready for a Bush Adventure

If you’ve ever felt a quiet pull toward the wild, it might be more than just a passing thought. From noticing birds on your daily commute to craving time away from screens and city life, these small moments can be signs of something bigger. A bush adventure offers the chance to reconnect with nature, challenge yourself, and experience life in its rawest, most rewarding form. Here are seven signs you might be more than ready to answer that call.

Read more
Blog

The Power of Immersive Wilderness Training

Discover how immersive wilderness training builds confidence, leadership and real-world skills. By learning in the bush, students develop both practical field expertise and the life skills needed to succeed in conservation and beyond.

Read more

Start your wildlife career

Want to become a field or nature guide? Explore our immersive courses and training programmes for professional safari guides and guardians of nature, taught and led by experts in the industry.

EcoTraining offers career and accredited courses, wildlife enthusiast courses, gap year programmes and customised group travel courses.

Join our nature-loving community.