Musth-Trunk-Wrinkle

A small dent or ''wrinkle'' in the trunk in an unexpected location based on the curve of the trunk. Musth-Trunk-Wrinkles are typically seen on the trunks of male in musth. We are not able to say whether the Musth-Trunk-Wrinkle has any function or why it may occur during musth.

References: Kahl & Armstrong 2002. (Full reference list)

This behavior occurs in the following context(s): Advertisement & Attraction, Aggressive, Courtship

Musth-Trunk-Wrinkle

Context: Advertisement & Attraction (1)

Liaqat is in musth. During this sequence it is possible to see an example of a Musth-Trunk-Wrinkle. Look for the inverted bend, or dent, in his trunk. (Amboseli, Kenya)

Musth-Trunk-Wrinkle

Context: Advertisement & Attraction (2)

Icarus is in full musth and is Mud-Wallowing. He digs his long tusk into the ground and rests in that position. He throws more mud on himself and then rubs his face and you can clearly see the Musth-Trunk-Wrinkle. (Amboseli, Kenya)

Musth-Trunk-Wrinkle

Context: Advertisement & Attraction (3)

Icarus is in full musth and is Feeding. As he moves his trunk back and forth you can catch glimpses of his Musth-trunk-Wrinkle. (Amboseli, Kenya)

Musth-Trunk-Wrinkle

Context: Advertisement & Attraction (4)

X004 is in full musth. As he walks by we can see his Musth-Trunk-Wrinkle. (Amboseli, Kenya)