Rhino in charge - Wim van den Heever - Wildlife Photographer of the Year2011

2011: Nature in Black & White - Highly Commended

Wim van den Heever Enlarge image Rhino in charge

Wim van den Heever (South Africa)

Rhino in charge

The white rhino was clearly feeling a bit edgy. He was the dominant male in this area of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve and well known for his unpredictable temperament when in female company. Several females were nearby. So Wim's driver stopped a good 100 metres (110 yards) or so away. Then, without warning, the rhino charged. 'I focused on it thundering towards us,' says Wim, 'but then realized the driver was struggling to start the engine.' Wim's priorities changed. The rhino pulled up at the last minute, just 3 metres (10 feet) away, snorted and kicked up a dust storm. Having made his point, he started running back, his head held high. 'For a second he stopped, turned round, and looked at me,' says Wim, 'just long enough for me to get the shot.'

Nikon D3X + 200-400mm f4 lens; 1/320 sec at f7.1; ISO 400.

This photograph is available to buy as a print.