Two weeks after the death of their matriarch, Victoria, wild elephants in Samburu National Reserve in northern Kenya continue to visit her remains and display unique behaviors seen only in their species. This video shows groups of elephant families using their trunks to touch and explore Victoria's carcass while standing peacefully in place. This rarely seen event is giving researchers insight into the elephants' social relationships. Though the researchers are hesitant to call this behavior "mourning," they do believe elephants display a specific reaction in response to the death of one of their own.
➡ Subscribe: http://bit.ly/NatGeoSubscribe

About National Geographic:
National Geographic is the world's premium destination for science, exploration, and adventure. Through their worldclass scientists, photographers, journalists, and filmmakers, Nat Geo gets you closer to the stories that matter and past the edge of what's possible.

Get More National Geographic:
Official Site: http://bit.ly/NatGeoOfficialSite
Facebook: http://bit.ly/FBNatGeo
Twitter: http://bit.ly/NatGeoTwitter
Instagram: http://bit.ly/NatGeoInsta

Related article by Laura Parker:
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/20...

VIDEOGRAPHER: Shifra Goldenberg/Save the Elephants
ASSOCIATE PRODUCER: Jed Winer
EDITOR: Jennifer Murphy

Rare Footage: Wild Elephants “Mourn” Their Dead | National Geographic
   • Rare Footage: Wild Elephants “Mourn” ...  

National Geographic
   / natgeo