PhotoFeed Contest - Wildlife Photography Round 133 ~ Harmony of the Tamer and Elephant at the Central Response Unit (CRU) Lala

Hello Hivers....

This post is my entry for the Cityscape Photography Contest hosted by @photofeed. If you'd like to participate, please read the rules here

Deep in the Pidie forest, specifically at the Lala Central Response Unit (CRU), Pidie Regency, Aceh, a touching sight is seen: a mahout and his tame elephant. The photo I'm sharing illustrates how the close bond between humans and these great animals is forged not only through the bond of chains, but also through mutual trust and affection.

The Lala Elephant Rescue Unit (CRU) is a conservation unit in Aceh that focuses on the preservation of Sumatran elephants (Elephas maximus sumatranus), a critically endangered subspecies of Asian elephant. The CRU's existence is crucial because it not only maintains the elephant population but also helps reduce conflict between wild elephants and local communities.

This is where the mahouts play a role; they are not just elephant handlers but also companions and guardians. The elephants at the CRU, as seen in the photo, are trained to assist in operations to deter wild elephants from entering people's gardens and are used in forest patrols to prevent poaching.

The bond between mahouts and elephants is built through patience, discipline, and affection. The mahouts get to know each elephant's character, understand its body language, and can even sense its mood. Likewise, the elephants learn to trust the humans who care for them every day.

The photo shows a mahout interacting with his elephant. The chain used is not just a restraint device but also part of a safety procedure. However, behind this, an emotional bond prevails over a mere control relationship.

Sumatran elephants in Aceh face various threats, from habitat loss and poaching to conflict with humans. CRU Lala serves as a vanguard of conservation, a place where mahouts, elephants, and nature unite to maintain a balanced ecosystem.

The harmonious relationship between mahouts and elephants, as pictured, symbolizes the hope that humans can coexist with wildlife, protecting them while simultaneously preserving the environment.