Milwaukee, United States - September 01, 2024

On September 1st, the Milwaukee County Zoo shared an endearing video showcasing one of its elephants engaging in a natural cooling behavior by covering itself with mud. The video, which quickly captured the hearts of online viewers, underscores the zoo's commitment to animal welfare and education.

The video, accompanied by a simple yet insightful caption, "Elephants + Mud = Hearth," explains that elephants use mud not only for fun but as a critical survival mechanism. "Elephants use mud to keep cool. It provides a protective layer from the sun," the zoo's statement reads, offering a glimpse into the daily life of these majestic creatures.

This natural behavior serves multiple purposes for elephants: it cools them down by providing a layer that evaporates slowly, it protects their skin from the harsh sun, and it can also deter insects. The act of mud bathing is not just a spectacle for zoo visitors but an essential part of an elephant's daily routine, especially in warmer climates.