Using the distal portion of the trunk to tuck a branch between the base of the trunk and a tusk, to store the item for later ingestion. The elephant may continue to feed on other items while he or she carries the branch. This technique appears to be used to prevent others from eating the branch. Typically observed among older adults, in which the gap between trunk and tusk is small enough to hold a branch successfully.
Nice scene where the Mabenzi family is feeding peacefully. Adult female, Valente, on the far right, is using a special foraging technique. She has a branch in her mouth, but has started feeding on grass. When she goes to place a trunkful of grass into her mouth she transfers her branch onto the top of her tusks and under her trunk for safe stowage. She stows it there for later eating. (Gorongosa, Mozambique)
