An extremely rare sighting of the elusive Knysna elephant has caused much excitement among conservationists along the Garden Route and beyond.

The lone female – affectionately known as ‘Oupoot’ – was captured on video and in photographs at a farmland in the Knysna Forest recently.

Oupoot is named after the beloved character in Dalene Matthee’s novel ‘Kringe in ‘n Bos.’

The photos and video were captured by local Karatara farmer Oubaas Fourie, on 17 July.

This is reportedly her first confirmed human sighting since 2019.

SANParks says the elephant, long monitored via hidden, non-invasive camera traps, remains healthy and undisturbed.

They have urged the public not to reveal her location or attempt to track her, warning it could endanger both the elephant and people.

SANParks Head of Communications and Spokesperson JP Louw says they are currently undertaking a comprehensive risk assessment process to guide any future decisions regarding the management and protection of the Knysna elephant.

“This process is ongoing, and we remain committed to ensuring that any decision is informed by sound science, conservation principles, and engagement with stakeholders. We will communicate the outcomes publicly and transparently once this process is complete.”

The Knysna elephant, Loxodonta Africana, is the same species as elephants found elsewhere in South Africa.

“She is a very evasive elephant who avoids encounters with people. Historic data shows that when she is followed by people, she changes her speed and direction of movement.”

Louw adds that while the stunning camera footage showed her to be relaxed, the situation changes if she were to be followed by humans, as the stress hormones in her dung are found to be high during these incidents.