The San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s elephants raced to protect their calves with an “alert circle” when a 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck Julian in Southern California.
Elephants Form Protective Circle During Southern California Earthquake
In a powerful demonstration of their deep intelligence and social bonds, a herd of African elephants at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park was caught on camera forming a protective circle around their young during a 5.2 magnitude earthquake that shook Southern California on Monday morning (April 14).
The rare moment was captured by one of the zoo’s cameras and later shared by representatives of the Safari Park. As the ground trembled beneath them, three adult elephants — Ndlula, Umngani, and Khosi — instinctively gathered around the two 7-year-old calves, Zuli and Mkhaya, creating what experts call an “alert circle”.
An Earthquake Felt Through the Feet
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake’s epicenter was located 3 miles (5 kilometers) south of Julian in San Diego County, around 33 miles (53 kilometers) from the zoo. The quake occurred at 10:08 a.m. local time and, while no injuries or property damage were reported, it didn’t go unnoticed by the zoo’s largest residents.
Elephants have an extraordinary ability to detect seismic vibrations not just through their ears, but also through the sensitive pads of their feet. This unique sensory trait allows them to respond rapidly to environmental changes — including earthquakes.
“Elephants have the unique ability to feel sounds through their feet,” zoo officials wrote in a Facebook post. “They formed what is known as an ‘alert circle’ during the 5.2 magnitude earthquake that shook Southern California this morning.”
Protective Instincts on Display
The footage shows the adult elephants quickly surrounding the two calves as the tremors began. This response — instinctive and highly coordinated — is a behavior typically seen in the wild when a herd senses danger from predators. The adults form an outward-facing ring, shielding the vulnerable calves in the center from potential threats.
“This behavior… is a natural response to perceived threats that helps protect younger elephants and the herd as a whole,” the zoo stated.
Mindy Albright, a curator of mammals at the Safari Park, explained that during such events, elephants often “freeze” inside the circle as they process and assess the danger.
“In the wild, this same formation would be used to protect calves from predators like lions or hyenas,” said Albright. “But in this case, it was an earthquake they were responding to — and it was amazing to see their instincts kick in.”
Young Calves, Brave Hearts
The video revealed subtle dynamics within the group. While Mkhaya, the female calf, remained firmly in the center of the circle, Zuli, the male calf, stood slightly on the edge — seemingly eager to assert his independence.
Albright noted that this wasn’t unusual. “Zuli is naturally more curious and confident,” she said. But even in his boldness, he wasn’t alone. Khosi, one of the older elephants who helped raise Zuli, stayed close and was seen gently touching Zuli with her trunk, reassuring him and subtly urging him to move closer to safety.
“She tapped him on the back and even on the face, as if to say, ‘It’s OK,’ and ‘stay back in the circle,’” Albright added.
A Return to Calm
Despite the momentary tension, the herd remained calm throughout the incident and quickly returned to their usual routines once the ground stopped shaking. According to the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, the elephants resumed normal activities shortly after, though they stayed in close proximity to one another for a while longer — a quiet show of solidarity and security.
“After this morning’s shake up, the [elephants] returned to business as usual and are safe along with the rest of the crew at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance,” zoo officials confirmed.
A Window Into the Emotional Lives of Elephants
Moments like this underscore why elephants are often considered some of the most emotionally complex animals on the planet. Their reactions are not just instinctual but deeply empathetic, displaying traits like comfort-giving, nurturing, and loyalty. The San Diego Zoo’s footage serves as a stunning reminder of the intricate social structures that govern elephant herds — and the quiet intelligence that guides them in moments of fear.
As the earth trembled, it wasn’t just a quake that was felt — but the unshakable bonds of a family, moving together as one.