During a recent earthquake in Southern California, a herd of elephants at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park responded instinctively to protect their young. A video captured shows five African elephants forming a protective circle around two calves, Zuli and Mkhaya. The older elephants, with their ears spread and flapping, remained vigilant even after the tremors ceased. Expert Mindy Albright notes that this behavior highlights their social intelligence, as they assess danger and respond collectively, revealing the intricate dynamics of elephant relationships and their instinctual protective measures.
When they perceive a threat, elephants often bunch together in an alert circle, typically with the young clustered in the center and adults facing outward.
In the video, Khosi, a teenager, tapped the male calf repeatedly with her trunk, reassuring him while cautioning him to stay closer to the group.
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