Finding ways to stay cool can be tricky during warm weather, but two young elephants at Chester Zoo had no trouble beating the heat.
Bala and Hari, both two years old, splashed around together in the water, taking turns soaking themselves and slipping playfully during one of the hottest July days on record.
With temperatures hitting 24°C (75°F), the pair enjoyed the refreshing water, with Bala even tipping onto his side under a waterfall, and then diving in with enthusiasm.
Will Condliffe, a Chester Zoo staff member, shared his delight in watching the young elephants play. “Over time, we’ve built a fantastic relationship with the elephants here,” he said.
“Seeing newcomers grow from curious little ones into impressive adults is always a joy. Watching Bala and Hari enjoy themselves is part of that amazing journey, and it won’t be long before they grow into strong adults.”
Bala, Chester Zoo’s youngest elephant, was born in January 2013 to her mother Sithami, while Hari was born a few months earlier, in November 2012, to his mother Sundara.
Their playful moments are a reminder of the special bonds and carefree joy that young elephants bring to the zoo.
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