The Chobe National Park in Botswana counts two prides of lions. Some of the adults have collars so the rangers can track where they are.

One morning, the smallest of the prides (comprised of a male, three females, and seven cubs) was dozing in the sun when a young elephant, separated from his herd and visibly lost, had the unfortunate idea to wander close by... The three lionesses started to follow it, and then ...attacked.

The young elephant started to run toward the truck from where these photos were taken, carrying the three cats on his back and flanks. Distracted by the truck, two of the lionesses let go. The third continued clawing at the elephant for a while, but finally gave up as well, frustrated, her paws dripping with blood and her lungs laboring from the chase.