Viral clip of elephants forming circle around calves at San Diego Zoo during earthquake stuns Internet

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA: A stunning video clip captured at the San Diego Zoo during the Monday, April 14, 5.2-magnitude earthquake has gone viral across the internet.

The footage showed African elephants inside their habitat, forming a protective circle around their calves, the phenomenon known as the "alert circle," according to The Mirror US.

Video shows elephants forming 'alert circle' around calves at San Diego Zoo during earthquake

San Diego Zoo Safari Park posted the clip on X (formerly Twitter) and captioned it, "Stronger together. Elephants have the unique ability to feel sounds through their feet and formed an 'alert circle' during the 5.2 magnitude earthquake that shook Southern California this morning."

"This behavior is a natural response to perceived threats to protect the herd," the zoo added. 

The video showed elephants Ndlula, Umngani, and Khosi circling youngsters Zuli and Mkhaya when the shaking began early Monday morning, per the outlet.

Interestingly, the elephants quickly encircled the two calves when the shaking started and remained in formation for around four minutes before breaking, but remained close by.

The safari park is home to eight African elephants who live in habitats across six acres and are divided into two main yards, as per the zoo's website.

Moreover, animal enthusiasts are free to watch a live stream of the elephants, as well as many other species, anytime on the zoo's website, per the outlet.

The earthquake hit near the incorporated community of Julian, in eastern San Diego County, as per the US Geological Survey. The initial reports suggested that it was felt throughout San Diego County as well as neighboring Riverside, Los Angeles, and Orange Counties.

Meanwhile, the exact epicenter was about 2.5 miles south of Julian.

As per the San Diego County police and sheriff’s departments, emergency crews are assessing the situation and have reported no immediate damage or injuries.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has also been briefed about the tragedy.

Residents are requested to stay alert for any possible aftershocks and avoid damaged buildings or power lines. 

During the earthquake, school children were taken outside as a precautionary measure once the ground started shaking, per California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection for San Diego County Captain Thomas Shoots.

"There was a lot of shaking and rattling around. But thankfully, everything seems to be back to normal," Shoots mentioned.

Internet amazed as clip shows elephants forming 'alert circle' during earthquake

Netizens were amazed to see the elephants' alertness about their calves, with one writing, "Nature is amazing." One added, "Why does this make me cry every time I watch this clip."

A person stated, "Elephants are such amazing creatures," whereas one mentioned, "No warning. No panic. Just elephants forming a safety circle around their young. Stronger together, always."

An individual noted, "They're so smart," while one commented, "This the most heartwarming connection post today."

A person added, "Even elephants understand safeguarding, and have early warning, early response systems in place. A big lesson for humans to learn." 

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.