Using vigorous kicking or swinging movements of the forelegs to splash mud or water onto the body, or using the trunk to scoop up mud or water and throw and blow it onto the body. Kicking is used to splash muddy water onto the underside of the body, while the trunk is used to direct mud or water to specific locations. Although this is a behavior that is engaged in by all age/sex groups, ostensibly to keep cool and/or protect against biting insects, it is a skill that must be learned and perfected.
Mama Little E engages in Mud-Splashing. Filmed in slo-mo without audio, notice the coordination of forefoot and trunk. (Maasai Mara, Kenya)
