The Magnificent Seven
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Text and facts are based on information from different sources like publications and books about the Magnificent Seven.
------------------------------- Other Magnificent 7 tuskers (click on name) ------------------------------
MAFUNYANE
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The images are based on the original photos by Anthony Hall Martin
Photographed by Aat Vuik in the Letaba Hall in Kruger NP
H I S T O R Y
Mafunyane was one of the original Magnificent Seven.
(c. 1926 - 1983)
He was the most famous and elusive
member of the M7
His name is derived from the Tsonga word, meaning "The irritable one"
He was very shy, avoiding people and vehicles.
He was named after a former KNP
warden, Lou Steyn, who was known for his quick temper
He had a hole, 10 cm in diameter in the right side of his skull.
Mafunyane's carcass was found on November 16th 1983 near the Tari river, northwest of Shingwedzi.
He died of natural causes and was estimated at 57 years.
His tusks are symmetrical and are of identical length and mass as you can see with the facts at the left side of this page.
Range
He roamed the area of the upper reaches of the Shingwedzi river and southwards to the
Bububu stream
Characteristics
Mafunyane had long straight tusks and a "hole" in his scull
TUSKS
Left Tusk Right Tusk
55,1 KG 55,1 KG
251 CM 251 CM