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By Gabe Whisnant
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At the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, a herd of African elephants was captured on video rushing to shield their young during Monday's earthquake, forming a protective circle around them in a behavior known as an "alert circle."
Context
Elephants can detect vibrations through their feet, which likely triggered the response. The herd—including Ndlula, Umngani, Khosi, and the young elephants Zuli and Mkhaya—appeared to calm down after a few minutes, according to the park.
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What to Know
On Monday, a 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck near Julian in San Diego County at 10:08 a.m. local time, sending tremors across Southern California. The quake, originating near the Elsinore fault zone—a branch of the San Andreas system—was felt as far north as Los Angeles, approximately 120 miles away.
Nearly 40,000 people reported that they felt the quake, according to USGS.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported several aftershocks following the initial tremor. Despite the widespread shaking, there were no reports of serious injuries or major structural damage. However, the quake did cause minor disruptions, including rocks falling onto roads.
In Julian, a historic mountain town known for its apple pie shops, residents experienced the quake's effects firsthand. Paul Nelson, owner of the Eagle Mining Co., noted that while some picture frames fell, the mine's tunnels remained intact. Transportation officials cautioned drivers about fallen debris on roadways, and trains were temporarily delayed for track inspections.
Some residents received early warnings through the USGS ShakeAlert system, though the timing of these alerts varied. Interestingly, a false alert was also sent to Michigan residents due to the use of portable cell towers from California in the area.
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What People Are Saying
The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance posted on X, "Stronger together 🐘 Elephants have the unique ability to feel sounds through their feet and formed an "alert circle" during the 5.2 magnitude earthquake that shook Southern California this morning. This behavior is a natural response to perceived threats to protect the herd."
The post continued, "After this morning's shake-up, eles Ndlula, Zuli, Mkhaya, Umngani, and Khosi are back to their regular routine and safe alongside the rest of the crew here at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance."
What Happens Next
It is possible aftershocks will continue to occur. Aftershocks are smaller earthquakes that follow a larger earthquake.
Reporting by the Associated Press contributed to this story.
Update: 4/14/25, 7:08 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information and remarks.
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