When an earthquake strikes, humans duck and cover. But elephants get in formation.
African elephants at the San Diego Zoo instinctively formed a protective circle around its youngest family members in the seconds after a 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck Southern California on Monday.
The phenomenon, known as an “alert circle,” occurs when a herd senses danger and gathers around the younger elephants to shield them from threats.
Video shared by the San Diego Zoo Safari Park shows elephants Ndlula, Umngani and Khosi circling youngsters Zuli and Mkhaya after the shaking disrupted a calm Monday morning. They stay huddled around the younger elephants for about four minutes before they broke the circle but still stayed nearby.
The safari park is home to eight African elephants who live in habitats spread over 6 acres and divided into two main yards, according to the zoo’s website. Enthusiasts can watch a live feed of the elephants at the zoo.
Earthquake struck outside of San Diego
Shortly after 10 a.m. local time, the earthquake, which had a 5.2 preliminary magnitude, was reported near Julian in San Diego County, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
The USGS also recorded several aftershocks of lesser magnitudes in the area about 60 miles northeast of San Diego. The 5.2 shock came after a 3.3-magnitude earthquake occurred near Julian the day before on Sunday.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom was briefed after the earthquake, his office confirmed on X, adding: “The state is coordinating with local authorities to assess any damage and if emergency response is needed.”
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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