Elephants at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park were seen forming a huddle around two calves as an earthquake hit southern California.
Adult elephants Ndlula, Umngani and Khosi were seen running in different directions as the tremor occurred, but soon gathered to form a protective shield around the two seven-year-old calves, Zuli and Mkhaya.
The elephants remained in the formation for several minutes and appeared to survey their surroundings for any potential threats with their ears wide and flapping.
According to news reports, the epicentre of the 5.2-magnitude tremor yesterday morning was located near the town of Julian in San Diego County and was felt all the way to Los Angeles.
There were no reports of major damage or injuries.
