A captivating video making rounds on social media has enthralled wildlife enthusiasts worldwide. The footage captures a tense moment when a crocodile lunges at an elephant calf in a swamp, only to be thwarted by the calf’s protective mother.

This incident highlights the fierce maternal instincts present in the animal kingdom, showcasing the lengths to which animal mothers will go to protect their offspring.

The viral video is a powerful reminder of the deep bond and unwavering care found among wildlife.

Supriya Sah, an officer of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), brought this dramatic encounter to light by sharing the video on Twitter.

The footage vividly depicts the crocodile snapping at the calf’s trunk, prompting the mother elephant’s immediate and forceful reaction.

The mother elephant swiftly returned to her calf’s side, aggressively stomping on the crocodile until it released its grip. She continued her relentless attack on the reptile, ensuring it posed no further threat.

Viewers have lauded the mother elephant’s bravery and dedication to her young. Many expressed empathy for the baby elephant, acknowledging the trauma it must have experienced. The resounding sentiment from viewers: “Do not mess with a mother elephant.”

This real-life drama, reminiscent of Rudyard Kipling’s “Just So Stories,” occurred with the entire elephant herd observing. The herd trumpeted and snorted in unison, standing in solidarity to protect the vulnerable calf.

Francois Borman, a Zimbabwean farmer and amateur photographer, had the remarkable opportunity to capture this awe-inspiring moment in Mana Pools in Zimbabwe’s Zambezi Valley.