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When a seismic event occurs, humans typically seek cover, but elephants display a different instinctual response—they form protective circles.
Recently, African elephants at the San Diego Zoo demonstrated this remarkable behavior after a 5.2 magnitude earthquake rattled Southern California. In the moments following the quake, the elephants instinctively moved to shield the youngest members of their herd.
This behavior, referred to as an “alert circle,” occurs when elephants sense danger. The herd unites around their vulnerable group, ensuring their safety from potential threats.
In a video shared by the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, viewers can see elephants Ndlula, Umngani, and Khosi encircling younger elephants Zuli and Mkhaya, a protective response that lasted approximately four minutes before they gradually dispersed but remained in proximity.
The safari park is home to a family of eight African elephants, living across 6 acres of habitat divided into two main areas, as noted on the zoo’s website. For those interested, a live feed of the elephants is available.
Details of the Earthquake Near San Diego
The earthquake, detected shortly after 10 a.m. local time, had a preliminary magnitude of 5.2 and was centered near Julian in San Diego County, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
Following the initial tremor, several aftershocks of lesser magnitudes were recorded in the vicinity, approximately 60 miles northeast of San Diego. Notably, this bigger quake was preceded by a 3.3-magnitude earthquake that struck the same area the day prior.
In response to the earthquake, California Governor Gavin Newsom was informed about the incident, and his office stated that efforts were underway to coordinate with local officials to evaluate any damage and determine if emergency measures were necessary.
Contributing: Kinsey Crowley, USA TODAY
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Watch elephants form protective circle in San Diego after earthquake
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