**Elephants Display Unsettling Behavior During San Diego Earthquake**
San Diego, CA – A peculiar incident unfolded at the San Diego Zoo on Wednesday evening as a group of elephants formed a tight, alert circle during a 4.6-magnitude earthquake that struck the region.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as “unsettling” and “unusual” as the elephants, normally scattered throughout their enclosure, suddenly gathered in a tight formation, their bodies tense and alert.
“I was standing near the elephant exhibit when the earthquake hit,” said zoo visitor, Emily Chen. “At first, I thought it was just my imagination, but then I saw the elephants all huddled together, facing inward. It was like they were trying to protect each other or something.”
The earthquake, which occurred at 8:30 pm, caused minor damage to buildings and infrastructure in the area, but no injuries were reported. However, the elephants’ behavior during the quake was a stark contrast to their usual calm demeanor.
“Our elephant herd is very sensitive to their environment, and they have a strong instinct for self-preservation,” said Paul Baribault, San Diego Zoo’s President and CEO. “It’s not uncommon for animals to exhibit unusual behavior during seismic events, but the way our elephants formed a tight circle was certainly unusual.”
Zoo officials observed that the elephants, which include 12-year-old Mali and 20-year-old Babs, seemed to be relying on each other for support and comfort during the quake. The animals remained in the alert circle for several minutes after the shaking stopped, as if waiting for the all-clear.
While it’s unclear what triggered this specific behavior, experts speculate that the elephants may have been responding to the seismic activity, possibly sensing the vibrations or changes in their environment.
“Elephants have a keen sense of spatial awareness and are highly attuned to their surroundings,” said Dr. Kathryn Jenkins, a zoologist specializing in animal behavior. “It’s possible that they were responding to the earthquake’s energy or even detecting subtle changes in their environment that humans couldn’t perceive.”
The San Diego Zoo has a long history of providing a safe and nurturing environment for its animals, and officials say they will continue to monitor the elephants’ behavior and provide any necessary support.
As for the elephants, they seemed to have weathered the quake without incident, and were back to their usual routine shortly after the event.
“It was a strange and intense experience, but it also reminded us of the incredible bond between these amazing animals,” said Chen, who was still shaken by what she witnessed. “You can’t help but feel a sense of awe and respect for these incredible creatures.”
