TITLE: Patience

This image was taken during a trip to the Maasai Mara. These grasslands cover over 1,510 square kilometres and form the Kenyan part of the larger Tanzanian Serengeti plains or Serengeti Mara ecosystem.
I watched this rather elderly elephant make halting progress across the horizon, towards a Balanites tree in the foreground and already in my sights. I waited for the right moment to take my shot. The heat was oppressive and the elephant took its time. The vultures waited patiently in the tree, their instincts no doubt indicating the likelihood of a potential feast.
I’ve given this image the title ‘Patience’ for these three reasons – the lone elephant, slowly but patiently making its way towards some unknown destination; the vultures waiting in their tree; my own patience in waiting for the moment when the elements came together to create the right image.
Most visitors come here to see the chase – cheetahs and lions catching their prey make compelling viewing, but if you’re willing to spend some time waiting and watching, other intriguing events are happening too.

AUTHOR: Steve Russell (United Kingdom)