During the 5.2 magnitude earthquake in Southern California, a herd of elephants at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park encircled each other for safety, showcasing an ancient defense mechanism.

Footage captured during the earthquake at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park showed a herd of elephants encircling each other for safety. The behavior exhibited by the elephants during the earthquake this morning in Southern California drew attention. Elephants named Ndula, Zuli, Mkhaya, Umngani, and Khosi formed a ‘warning circle’ known to protect their herd when they sensed the effects of the earthquake.

This behavior of the elephants highlights an example of an ancient defense mechanism they apply to defend each other when they quickly gather and perceive threats in their surroundings.