VIDEO: Baby elephant saved by herd after getting swept up by fast flowing river

Incredible footage showing an elephant herd coming to the rescue of a calf has emerged - after the baby was swept away by the river's current.

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by Ellie Hooper |
Published on

The video shows the herd attempting to cross the fast flowing Ewaso Nyiro river, with the larger elephants seeming to manage the crossing with ease.

However when the small calf tries to cross, he begins to struggle and is picked up by the strong current, carrying him further downstream.

Rather than press on without the youngster, the herd stops and one elephant is seen chasing after the baby - managing to scoop him up with his trunk and helping him back to shore.

Elephants are known for showing compassion for each other, with research suggesting they even console each other in times of need.

A study in Thailand showed that after a traumatic event such as an encounter with a predator - other elephant's would approach the victim and touch its face - calming them down with their touch.

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