SWBRmuddy - by Dean Murray

A mother elephant and her young calf were photographed wallowing in mud - and even breaking wind.

Wildlife photographer and guide Paul Goldstein documented the hilarious scene in close-up detail – and was even amused to hear the youngster fart. (video avail).

He explains: “In the high plains of Laikipia in Kenya there has been little water for the past few months.

''That has now changed dramatically and recently in Ol Pejeta Conservancy a huge storm changed many 'habits', particularly those of a small herd of elephants.

“The squall had peaked from a deluge and this is weather I love to photograph wildlife in.

''These elephants were initially grazing happily, delighting in their wet food.

''Pretty soon the mother lay down and wallowed effortlessly before seemingly inviting her young calf to do the same.

“He veered between mum and auntie and whilst scrambling up the mud slope broke wind volcanically. I struggled not to laugh when this happened and not just once either.

“Childish? Yes. Puerile also, but if you can't be amused by an 'elephart' you can't be amused by anything.

“All would need more than two bottles in the next shower to rinse off this thick black cotton mud pack.”

ENDS