Enchanting photographs have captured the delightful shenanigans of baby elephants as they immerse themselves in a mudbath at Chester Zoo, almost a year after the herd welcomed its newest member. The young calves were observed frolicking, tumbling, and splashing about in the mud on Thursday. Earlier this year, the zoo expanded its family of Asian elephants with the birth of a male calf to 20-year-old Sithami Hi Way in January. This occurred only a month following the arrival of Indali Hi Way and one year after the birth of half-sister Nandita Hi Way. According to the zoo’s statement, “Two births in one month is momentous for our Hi Way family herd of Asian elephants. Elephants are known to be highly social animals, so this is an incredible boost for the group.” The zoo is part of a breeding program led by the European Association of Zoos and Aquariums (EAZA) that focuses on preserving the elephant population in Europe.
“Bonding Buddies: On Thursday, the adorable baby cows were caught on camera as they frolicked, rolled, and splashed around in the muddy terrain at Chester Zoo.”
The zoo has welcomed a new member to its Asian elephant family, with the birth of a male calf to Sithami Hi Way, a 20-year-old mother, in January. The arrival of this little one comes after the birth of Indali Hi Way the previous month. It’s a joyous time for the herd!
“Fun in the Dirt! A playful baby elephant joyfully pins down its companion while they roll around in the muddy terrain of Chester Zoo.”
Earlier this year, the zoo made an announcement stating that the birth of two baby elephants in a single month was a significant event for their Hi Way family herd of Asian elephants. The zoo emphasized that elephants are highly social animals, so having two new additions to the group was an exceptional enhancement.
Even though they are not as large as African elephants, Asian elephants still hold the title of being the biggest land animals in Asia.
At the start of the 1900s, there were approximately 100,000 Asian elephants in existence. Unfortunately, their population has significantly decreased by more than 50% in the last century.
One of the reasons why elephant populations have been decreasing is due to the loss of their natural habitat, which can be traced back to human activities that are causing destruction to ancient rainforests.
With the growing population in Asia, the demand for more farmland is on the rise. Unfortunately, this puts immense pressure on elephant habitats as they are often the first to be converted for agricultural purposes.
The act of poaching poses a major danger to elephants, as they are often singled out for their valuable ivory and skin.
Elephants have an interesting way of keeping themselves cool, protected and safe from parasites. They simply roll around in mud! This not only helps to keep them cool under the scorching sun but also creates a protective layer against harsh UV rays that can damage their skin. It’s amazing how these gentle giants have evolved their own way of taking care of themselves in the wild!
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