It seems playful antics aren’t limited to humans, as young elephants at Addo Elephant National Park in South Africa showcased their lively nature.

During an afternoon drive through the park, Pete Leyland, a 36-year-old IT consultant, and his family witnessed a group of four young elephants engaging in a spirited wrestling match under the watchful eyes of their elders.

The young elephants took turns rolling and squashing each other on the ground, making playful noises that could only be described as complaints when one got tired of being at the bottom of the pile. Leyland captured the charming scene and shared:

“There were all sorts of ‘get off me’ noises from the little one getting squashed. After a bit of jumping on his friend, the one on top got off and lay down, letting the squashed elephant have his turn to jump on him.”

Leyland, a frequent visitor to the park, noted that this playful behavior was unlike anything he’d seen before.

He described how the session unfolded:
“Two of the elephants were lying in the long grass, seemingly snacking while on their sides. Soon, two more joined in, and one decided to lie beside another. The squeals from the bottom elephant suggested he’d had enough, but it was clear they were just playing.”

Eventually, the adult elephants intervened, perhaps growing weary of the roughhousing. Leyland said none of the young elephants were hurt during their energetic games.

This heartwarming moment captured the playful side of these majestic creatures, offering a rare glimpse into their family dynamics and the care the adults show in keeping things in check.