They say parents will do anything for their children, even risking their own safety to protect them.
This video from Wildlife Rescuers is a perfect example, showing just how quickly elephants spring into action when their calves are threatened.
In the rare footage, two wild boars suddenly dart past a herd of elephants, creating a chaotic scene.
Within seconds, the adult elephants close ranks, forming a protective circle around the young calves. It’s clear that those boars are not going to get anywhere near their babies!
Wow! Those elephants got around the little ones so quickly…they didn’t waste any time in getting their little ones safe!
@wildlife_rescuers When two boars ran past quickly, the elephant herd formed a “circle of trust,” with the adults surrounding the calves and facing outward. This behaviour is a protective instinct, creating a living shield to keep the young safe from potential threats. It shows the herd’s strong social bonds and cooperative defence, where every member works together to protect the most vulnerable. Credit unknown Please DM us for credit #animals #animallovers #elephants #elephantherd #circleoftrust ♬ original sound – Wildlife_Rescuers
Viewers of Wildlife Rescuers’ video all agreed that the elephants’ quick reactions to danger were impressive. @Dalaney said, ‘Elephants are very smart!” @SnakePuke66 pointed out, “Wow, everyone knew exactly what to do!” @Bella Donna agreed, “Brilliant and efficient!”
Elephants’ “Circle of Trust”
Wildlife Rescuers shared in the video’s caption more about what was going on when the elephants quickly circled around the calves, “When two boars ran past quickly, the elephant herd formed a “circle of trust,” with the adults surrounding the calves and facing outward.
This behavior is a protective instinct, creating a living shield to keep the young safe from potential threats. It shows the herd’s strong social bonds and cooperative defense, where every member works together to protect the most vulnerable.”
SeaWorld explains more about how an elephant herd works together to protect their young, “The entire herd contributes to the safety of the calves. When a female is giving birth, other females often surround her to protect her from potential threats during this vulnerable time. This cooperative behavior ensures that the young are constantly monitored and protected from dangers in their environment.”
If the boars had continued the attack, the adult elephants would likely have ramped up their defenses. They would’ve been trumpeting loudly as a warning, stomping the ground to assert dominance, and using their powerful trunks and tusks to keep the intruders at bay. And honestly, their sheer size alone would be enough to make the smaller animals think twice. Those boars really wouldn’t have stood a chance!
This article by Natalie Hoage was first published by Pet Helpful on 15 August 2025. Lead Image: Elephants forming a circle. Image via Shutterstock/Mihir Sutaria.
Help to protect wildlife
Help to protect wildlife by donating as little as $5 – it only takes a minute!
Our conservation partners spend at least 90 percent of the money raised on actual fieldwork rather than administration and fundraising.
