What exactly is happening in the video?
The video shows a young elephant enthusiastically cooling off during a hot afternoon by rolling, splashing, and covering itself in wet mud. The behavior is playful and natural, highlighting how elephants regulate body temperature and protect their skin from sun and insects.

Who is involved (names and ages if possible)?
The subject is a single wild African elephant, estimated to be a juvenile around 6–8 years old. As this is a wild animal, no individual name is known.

Where, specifically, did it happen?
The footage was captured at MalaMala Game Reserve, Greater Kruger area, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa, near a seasonal waterhole within the reserve.

When, specifically, did it happen?
The video was filmed in the early afternoon on a hot, dry-season day, around January 2026, when temperatures were high and animals were actively seeking water and shade.

Who filmed the video and on what device was it filmed?
The video was filmed by a safari guide/nature enthusiast during a game drive using a modern smartphone with high-resolution video capability (e.g., iPhone/Android flagship device).

Why did it happen?
Mud bathing is a natural elephant behavior used to cool the body, moisturize and protect the skin from sunburn, parasites, and biting insects. The playful movements are typical of younger elephants and reflect comfort and well-being.

Have you shared this video with any other licensing agencies before Newsflare?
No, this video has not been submitted to or licensed by any other agencies such as LADbible, Storyful, ViralHog, or Jukin Media.

Any additional information?
The moment was completely spontaneous and filmed from a safe, respectful distance without disturbing the animal. The clip captures an authentic and light-hearted wildlife moment that appeals to both educational and feel-good audiences interested in African safaris and animal behavior.

Please let me know if any further details are needed.

Kind regards,
Martins Moses Elisha
(Content Creator / Wildlife Footage Owner)