Injured rhino sleeps soundly under giant elephant — shows remarkable trust in friend who could crush him

Some stories instantly touch your heart, and that is exactly what countless social media users felt as they came across this viral video of a rhino taking shade under the torso of an elephant. Originally posted by @sheldricktrust, a nonprofit organization across Kenya that rescues and caters to African elephants and rhinos, the clip has garnered more than 4.4 million views and 299K likes so far. 

The endearing video features a rhino, Raha, lying comfortably on the grass and beneath an elephant named Nyambeni. The way Raha relaxes and takes her nap despite the enormous animal looming over her shows the extreme confidence she has in the mammal. The caption also read, "An animal would never behave this way unless they had utmost trust in the other." The clip continues with Nyambeni taking a step back from Raha, while ensuring she remains close enough to the rhino as a protective guard. 

The caption further explained Nyambeni's next move, "You might also notice Nyambeni gently inspecting Raha’s tail area with her trunk. As an infant, Raha was attacked by predators, who bit off her tail and left her with lasting injuries to her rear end. Nyambeni and the other mini-matriarchs seem to understand that Raha is vulnerable and in need of extra support. They are always so gentle and watchful around her." A blog by the organization has also shared more details about Raha, her condition, and her daily routine. It states that while she has started eating more vegetation, she is still cautious about eating roughage due to her compromised digestive system. Due to this, she is smaller in size in comparison to other average rhinos her age. It also gives her a distinct appearance.  

In one post, a little backstory of Nyambeni's rescue is also covered, sharing how the elephant was saved due to a stranger's kindness. In May 2022, a Meru farmer heard a strange sound near a ditch and found a tiny elephant calf calling out for help. Instead of walking away, he decided to rescue her. When Nyambeni came to the nursery, she was just a baby needing warmth and care. Three years later, she has now grown strong and helps care for younger elephants like a mini-nanny in the herd. According to WWF, in the last decade, more than 17,000 African elephants were illegally killed every year for their ivory, averaging 47 a day. But organizations like the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust are working tirelessly to change that by rescuing orphaned calves, rehabilitating them, and protecting the wildlife through anti-poaching patrols. 

Many users also expressed their support and adoration for the elephant and rhino duo in the comment section. @huh_what_pardon wrote, "I had no idea they looked after other animals other than their own. How amazing and wonderful." @brandiadeatherage shared, "She is even touching her little injured behind, as if to show acknowledgment and care." @tatjana.garibaldi commented, "This is so special, sweet and touching! Really beautiful." @nilpferd_de_la_nuit dropped a cute comment, "Two friends separated by major ear size differences." 

For more inspiring animal content, follow @sheldricktrust on their Instagram account.