What could have been a tragic accident turned into a remarkable rescue when a baby elephant lost its balance and fell into a river, completely submerging beneath the water.
The incident occurred near a dam in South Africa, where the young calf slipped into the river after losing its footing on a steep embankment.
Luckily, an elder elephant sprang into action, wrapping its trunk around the calf’s and pulling it up. Shortly after, a second elephant entered the water to help push the stranded calf safely.
Photographer Gwen Rea was at the scene and captured the heartwarming rescue. Rea shared her experience: “It was late afternoon, and I was preparing to leave when I noticed the baby elephant had fallen in. The water levels were low, and the embankment was too steep for the young ones.”
Rea explained that she was filled with panic and a sense of urgency as she tried to document the moment while searching for a number to contact park rangers. “I shouted to nearby people to call for help,” she added.
As the herd gathered, one elephant jumped into the water to assist. Rea recalled the tense moments when the baby elephant was fully submerged but then lifted out by the “lifesaver” elephant, with other members of the herd offering support.
Rea, 64, who was at Hapoor Dam near Addo Elephant Park, felt deeply moved by the experience. “I cheered and applauded the hero,” she said. “I feel honored to have witnessed this incredible moment.”
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