While ellies aren’t usually associated with high speeds, they sure are fast. When necessary, they can clock speeds of up to 15mph / 40kmh. But speed isn’t the only defining factor of a run- it’s also the gait. Unlike most quadrupeds, elephants neither gallop or trot, but walk extremely fast and bounce without leaving the ground, allowing their centre of mass to move along faster.
Is this considered a run? The folks at Stanford believe so due to this bounce factor- which can also help us to understand how dinosaurs once moved.
However you wish to define it, this bull elephant was clearly on a mission and quickly gaining speed while approaching another bull. Best to respect that mission, stay clear and watch this beautiful speedy being from afar!
african wildlife 