The herd of elephants enter the cave every night. Find out the reason for this absurd pilgrimage: it will surprise you!
Elephants in the Kitum Cave (YouTube) – ecoo.it
This giant African mammalsWith their impressive tusks and long trunks, they are among the most fascinating animals that have ever walked the planet. This is due to the gigantic size that could make them appear menacing at first glance; or because of the infinite sweetness that exudes from their snouts, which softens their size and makes them extremely delicate in our eyes.
The fact is that each of us could freeze at the passage of an elephant and admire with delight the power of this species. But how would you put it if we told you that in Africa, on the border between Uganda and Kenya, there is a detail Location where you couldn’t see one but dozens of elephants who, led by the pack leader, advance intrepidly in the same direction?
This phenomenon was recently observed near the Mount Elgon, a volcano that has been extinct for centuries. The mountain slopes in particular are characterized by a series of caves, including the one that is famous today Kitum Cave. This would be the very destination that attracts dozens of elephants night after night. We’re sure you’ll be amazed when you learn why.
Kitum Cave, elephants flock in every night: the reason for this extravagant action
I am are among the most endangered species this planet considering elephants have emerged in the last decade have experienced population declines of up to 62%. An alarming percentage that, combined with the risks associated with human activities, should really make us think about the actions we could take to protect this species. Not surprisingly, some of the causes that most endanger these giants of the savannah include: Landfills where the specimens end up in search of food.
The location of Mount Elgon (YouTube) – ecoo.it
In short, the survival of this species appears to be severely compromised, except in rare cases. In fact, in certain contexts on the planet, elephants are proving to be perfectly capable of taking care of themselves and their needs thanks to the bounty of nature that surrounds them. Exactly what the rangers observed when observing Kitum Cave, on the slopes of Mount Elgon. Right here, in this case, these animals would have introduced a surprising mechanism to protect their species.
NocturnalActually dozens elephants – led by the pack leader – sink into the bowels of the cave in search of something that at first glance was incomprehensible to the observers. The tunnels of the cave, already frequented by the Maasai tribe, are actually used as a sacred place; However, this only happens in the first rooms. In fact, no human has ever ventured into the depths of these subterranean passages.
Instead, literally to everyone’s surprise, the elephants head into the bowels of Elgon Volcano every night (and for a while). Ground which may not be easy to understand at first glance). In fact, these giants of the savannah are on the lookout for something essential for their livelihood and their survival. But what exactly?
The elephants venture into the cave: they are looking for salt, which is essential for their diet
Elephant in the cave (YouTube) – ecoo.it
When water and food rations are scarce on the border between Kenya and Uganda, the elephants only have one chance to ensure proper supplies Supply of mineral salts (Natrium in particular): Go to the depths of Mount Elgon and pass the Kitum Cave. The walls of this cave, covered with mineral salt deposits, are a real panacea for large mammals. That’s why the elephants literally make a pilgrimage to the cave every night.
Led by their leader, these mammals venture into spaces where the Maasai tribe never dared to enter. Elephants are able to do this with the help of their trunks Top up with saltessential for their nutrition and livelihood. Hence the reason for such behavior.