Elephants’ Reaction to Solar Eclipse at Zoo

The Asian elephants at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, Syracuse, New York, had a unique reaction to a solar eclipse.

The Solar Eclipse

On April 8, 2024 the US experienced a solar eclipse.

While humans marveled at the spectacle of the sun obscured by the moon, the Asian elephants at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo also experienced the sudden shift in their environment. As the day briefly turned into night, these intelligent creatures reacted to the eerie darkness enveloping their surroundings.

Keeping Close to Each Other

As the light faded during the eclipse, the elephants at the zoo exhibited a protective behavior typical of their wild counterparts. They instinctively gathered together and formed a tight group to ensure mutual safety. 

This clustering, a common response among elephants when faced with uncertainty or potential threats in the wild, was particularly notable. The adults positioned themselves around the younger elephants, shielding them and reinforcing the herd’s bond during the unexpected darkness.

Holding Trunks

As the sunlight returned, a cute moment between two elephants, Targa and Romani, unfolded. They were seen sharing a reassuring touch of their trunks. Which is almost like holding hands for humans. This touching interaction reflects the deep social bonds that elephants form with one another. 

Updated: 8 August 2024

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Linnea H, BSc Sociology

Author at Animals Around The Globe. BSc Sociology

Linnea is a born and bred Swede but spends as much time as possible in Cape Town, South Africa. This is mainly due to Cape Town’s extraordinary scenery, wildlife, and atmosphere (in other words, because Cape Town is heaven on earth.) That being said, Sweden’s majestic forests forever hold a special place in her heart. Linnea spends as much time as she can close to the ocean collecting sea shells or in the park admiring puppies.

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