Eyewitness footage from Kruger National Park reveals one of the most remarkable natural events we've seen in some time. As one of the largest game reserves on the continent, this 7,500 square-mile South African wonderland is home to nearly
150 different species of mammals. One of those species is the elephant, whose population within the park's confines can range from 7,000 to
over 11,000.
So while it's not uncommon to cross paths with an elephant here, what the video below captures is considerably more rare. As this elephant calf was trying to cross the road, it suddenly slows to a halt and begins to woozily collapse. Ultimately, the beautiful creature would succumb to its own weight and lay practically motionless on the asphalt, but it's what happened next that truly touched my heart.
An elephant in distress is no laughing matter. The moment they are born they often weigh over 200 pounds, so this young calf can't exactly be picked up and moved that easily. Amazingly, the nearby herd began surrounding the calf to protect it from cars, humans, or any other predator that might want to cause it harm.
The herd joins forces as a team to help lift the calf to its feet, using their trunks as a means to lever the majestic mammal off the floor. After some initial struggle their efforts pay off and the calf is on its way, bounding off into the brush with the rest of the herd. What a remarkable display of Mother Nature's beauty for us to all witness.
My heart sank when I first saw this helpless calf collapse, but I never imagined the touching actions of the herd that would follow. What did you think when you first saw what was happening? Have you ever seen anything like it? Let us know how this made you feel in the comments, and spread this story if you love nature and believe in the power of family and togetherness.
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