A 5.2 magnitude earthquake hit Southern California, prompting a notable reaction from a group of elephants at the San Diego Zoo. Captured on video, the elephants instinctively clustered together in a defensive formation called bunching, where older elephants protected the younger calves. This behavior is common among elephants, as it provides them with a sense of security and a comprehensive view of their surroundings to detect potential threats. The quake's epicenter was near Julian, Calif., but no injuries or damage were reported.
The response from the elephants was a defensive position known as bunching, and is a typical reaction to threats, said Joyce Poole, a conservation biologist with a doctorate in elephant behavior from Cambridge University.
When bunched, elephants often have their tusks pointed out, ears extended, eyes opened wide and trunks out, trying to smell potential threats.
The formation, like the spokes of a wheel, Dr. Poole said, gives the group a 360-degree view of their surroundings to pinpoint any danger.
The younger members instinctively seek out the most protected position inside the circle, she said.
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