PhotoFeed Contest - Wildlife Photography Round 129 ~ Elephants at CRU Sampoiniet, Aceh Jaya

Hello...

In the PhotoFeed Wildlife Photography Contest Round 129 organized by @photofeed, I tried to share a photo of an elephant at CRU Sampoiniet, Aceh Jaya. Amidst the green tropical forests of Aceh Jaya, there is a unique experience that is not only touching, but also shows the harmony between humans and nature. The photo I shared shows the activity of bathing a tame elephant at the Sampoiniet Conservation Response Unit (CRU), a conservation center that serves as a temporary home for Sumatran elephants rescued from conflict or poaching. With a backdrop of dense forest and clear river flow, this moment symbolizes togetherness in the effort to preserve endangered species.

The tame elephants are seen enjoying bathing in the river, while a mahout attentively cleans them. This process not only maintains the animals' hygiene but also strengthens the emotional bond between the mahout and the elephant. Regular bathing is also important for maintaining healthy skin and helping them relax after their activities in the wild.

CRU Sampoiniet is not only a temporary sanctuary, but also an education and conservation center involving the local community. Programs there aim to reduce human-elephant conflict while promoting a harmonious approach to conservation. Educational tours, such as elephant bathing, also serve as a way to raise public awareness of the importance of preserving ecosystems and biodiversity.

This photo encourages us to better understand that conservation is not only about saving animals from extinction but also about building a mutually respectful relationship between humans and nature. Activities like those at CRU Sampoiniet prove that conservation can be carried out in gentle, compassionate ways, while still providing an unforgettable experience for all involved.

That's all I can share for this opportunity. I hope you enjoy it. Thank you very much for reading this post. That is all and thank you