A 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck near San Diego, causing a herd of elephants at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park to spring into action to protect their young. The video shows the elephants initially standing around before running in different directions, with the older elephants encircling and shielding the two 7-year-old calves from potential threats. Despite the rocking stopping, the older elephants remain at the ready with their ears spread and flapping. The quake was felt from San Diego to Los Angeles, causing no major damage but spooking the elephants. Elephants are highly intelligent and social animals that can perceive threats and often bunch together in an alert circle. In the video, the older elephants protect the calves, with one seeking refuge between adults while the other shows courage and independence on the edge of the circle. The female elephant repeatedly taps the male calf to reassure him. The calves’ roles will change over time, with the male eventually joining a bachelor group. The elephants huddled again briefly during an aftershock before dispersing once they determined everyone was safe. The curator of mammals at the park noted that it was heartwarming to see the elephants protecting their young, reflecting the natural instinct parents have to safeguard their children.
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