Vutomi is a female elephant famous at the Zuka Nature Reserve in South Africa for having only three legs. It is not known exactly when Vutomi lost her leg, but many believe she may have been caught in a poacher’s trap or attacked by predators when she was young.
Despite losing a leg and having the heavy body typical of elephants, Vutomi has adapted to lead a normal life and survive in the harsh wild. She has learned to do everything—move around, find food, drink water, and swim across rivers—with just three legs.
Other members of the herd play a crucial role in Vutomi’s survival, as she is fortunate to be welcomed and protected by them.
Adult elephants generally have no natural enemies due to their physical advantages and strength. However, elderly or sick elephants can become targets for predators such as lions or hyenas.
Elephants are highly social and communal animals. Sick or elderly elephants in the herd are usually protected by healthier, stronger members. Similarly, calves are strictly guarded by their mothers and other herd members to protect them from predators. Female elephants in the herd are also ready to care for and nurse calves if their mothers are ill or have died for any reason.
“Vutomi is very fortunate to be sheltered and protected by the members of her herd. Elephants always know how to protect the weaker individuals in the herd, such as the young, the elderly, or the sick,” said Dylan Pons, a staff member at the Zuka Nature Reserve.
