Rare Twin Elephant Captivates Internet with His Viral Selfie Skills
Matthew Russell
Yaad, a one-year-old Asian elephant, has become an internet sensation after his "elfie" (elephant selfie) went viral.
Residents at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo in Syracuse, New York, Yaad and his twin brother, Tukada, have been in the limelight since their historic birth, a rare event given that twin elephant births constitute only 1% of all elephant births globally, ABC News reports.
Photo: X / Rosamond Gifford ZooAsian elephants are a keystone species, playing a crucial role in maintaining the biodiversity of the ecosystems they inhabit.
A Moment Captured
These captivating photos of Yaad, shared by the zoo on Facebook, show him exploring the art of photography with his trunk lifted high, exuding a sense of curiosity and playfulness.
A member of the animal care staff who works closely with the elephants, facilitated the photo session. The elephants have developed strong bonds with their caregivers.
Photo: X / Rosamond Gifford ZooAsian elephants like Yaad and Tukada are classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List.
The Adventurous Twin
Yaad, which the zoo described as the more adventurous and independent of the twins, often seeks out new experiences, including these unique photo opportunities. This characteristic sets him apart and makes moments like these possible.
His playful and curious nature shines through in these images, providing a glimpse into the personality of this remarkable animal.
@syracusezoo After watching the adults, Asian elephant miracle twin Yaad smashed his first watermelon! And this time, he shared with his brother Tukada. #babyanimals #cuteanimals #animalsoftiktok #elephant #fyp #babyelephants ♬ original sound - Rosamond Gifford Zoo
Life at the Zoo
When not in the spotlight, Yaad spends quality time with Tukada and the other elephants in their spacious 6-acre habitat, People reports. Their home at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo is designed to foster natural behaviors and social interactions, ensuring a healthy and stimulating environment for these majestic creatures.
Celebrating a Milestone
The twins' first birthday was a significant event, celebrated with much enthusiasm despite inclement weather, CNY Central reported. The joyous occasion featured a specially prepared cake, enjoyed not just by Yaad and Tukada but by their entire elephant family.
https://youtu.be/BsjdT6kjLkY?feature=shared
Yaad's selfie is more than just a cute photo; it's a window into the life of a young elephant growing up in a caring environment, a reminder of the importance of wildlife conservation, and a testament to the unique personalities that these magnificent creatures possess.
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