Elephants Create ‘Alert Circle’ to Shield Young Amid San Diego Earthquake

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Footage from the San Diego Zoo Safari Park shows the large mammals huddling together around the herd’s calves

Sara Hashemi
– Daily Correspondent

April 17, 2025 11:14 a.m.

A dramatic 5.2 magnitude earthquake that struck Southern California prompted a group of African elephants at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park to exhibit remarkable protective behavior toward their young. This instinctive reaction was captured on camera, providing valuable insight into how these intelligent animals respond under threat.

As the tremors began, the elephants initially scattered in response to the quake. However, soon after, mature elephants named Ndlula, Umngani, and Khosi instinctively formed a protective circle around two calves, Zuli and Mkhaya. This action, referred to by experts as an “alert circle,” illustrates the social dynamics and strong protective instincts prevalent in elephant herds.

In a show of bravery and perhaps a desire to protect, Zuli attempted to position himself closer to the adult elephants. Observing this interaction, curator Mindy Albright commented on the behavior, noting how the adult elephants gently encouraged the calves to remain nestled within their protective formation, conveying reassurance through physical contact.

Researchers emphasize the social nature of elephants. Joshua Plotnik, an animal behavior expert, remarked on the significance of the circle formation, highlighting that adult elephants instinctively position themselves outward, creating a buffer for the more vulnerable younger members of the herd. This behavior is a critical survival strategy that enhances the safety of the entire group when facing potential threats.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park elaborated on the importance of such defensive actions, characterizing them as instinctual responses designed to safeguard the youngest elephants from harm.

Albright further reflected on the scene, likening it to the protective instincts seen in human parents—highlighting an innate behavior to shield offspring during challenging situations.

Notably, elephants possess an extraordinary ability to detect vibrations through their feet and ears, an adaptation that aids in communication among herds. This capacity may have been pivotal in alerting them to the earthquake before it fully struck, suggesting a depth of awareness that further underlines their intelligence.

In her comments, Albright emphasized the importance of these environmental cues, which are indicative of the elephants’ overall health and well-being. Such keen responsiveness reaffirms the significance of studying these magnificent creatures and understanding their behavioral patterns.

Plotnik echoed this sentiment, underscoring the urgent need for continued research into elephant behavior, especially as African elephant populations are experiencing a significant decline, with Asian elephants similarly facing perilous threats to their survival. The instinctive behavior exhibited by the herd reflects not only their social structures but also highlights the urgent conservation efforts required to protect these species.

As the situation settled and the elephants returned to their usual routines following a subsequent aftershock, the zoo reported that their day-to-day life continued without significant disruption. Nonetheless, the incidents serve as poignant reminders of the resilience and vulnerability of these incredible animals, leaving observers with more questions about their cognitive abilities and the pressing need for conservation efforts.

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www.smithsonianmag.com