Heartwarming photos captured the moment a herd of elephants united to rescue a calf that had fallen into a waterhole in Addo National Park, South Africa.
The dramatic scene unfolded as the calf’s mother, with the help of other herd members, used her trunk to pull the young elephant out of danger. Amateur photographer Adele van Schalkwyk, who witnessed and documented the event, described the herd’s behavior as both compassionate and highly coordinated. Van Schalkwyk, a tech specialist from Vredenburg, South Africa, captured these images at Addo National Park, home to around 600 elephants. Reflecting on the event, she said, “I was amazed by the level of teamwork and empathy they displayed. From the moment they arrived at the dam, the herd was protective of the calf, and when it slipped into the water, they immediately worked together to pull it to safety.”
One particularly striking image in the series, titled Loving Together, shows four elephants joining forces to rescue the calf. Despite the herd’s efforts to keep the young elephant away from the water, the curious calf fell in again, prompting a second rescue mission.
Addo National Park, South Africa’s third-largest national park, was established in 1931 to protect its dwindling elephant population, which had fallen to just 11 individuals at the time.
Reflecting on the experience, van Schalkwyk expressed her profound admiration for these animals, stating, “These photos showcase that elephants are not merely creatures of utility but sentient beings with emotions and bonds. In a world facing so many challenges, there is much we can learn from their behavior.”
Her photographs serve as a poignant reminder of the deep connection within these majestic creatures and their ability to exhibit care and teamwork in the face of adversity.
