Baby elephant runs to comfort her new best friend with a hug

We could all learn a thing or two from our animal friends about the true meaning of a hug. Chaba and Pyi Mai, two baby elephants from the Elephant Nature Park in Thailand, have shown it to us. These two pachyderms have become the best of friends, and they love to express their affection for each other.

The story of Chaba and Pyi Mai begins when Chaba first came to the park. When she saw her new surroundings, she got a little nervous, but she didn’t have to feel that way for long, because before she even noticed her, Pyi Mai was running over to give her a comforting hug. Emmerson told The Dodo that it was like Pyi Mai saying, “Welcome home!” She then knew that the two elephants were going to be great friends.

As their friendship grew, Chaba and Pyi Mai started hugging often. Emmerson said they constantly communicate with each other through vocalizations and touch. These hugs are more than just displays of affection – they are actually a way for the elephants to communicate their love for one another.

But what do hugs from elephants have that make them so special? 

Emmerson says that when elephants hug each other by pressing their trunks together it is a display of affection that is meant to show love and support. And we could all use a little more love and support in our lives, right?

Emerson said:

“If one of the babies strays from her friend, the other will immediately call [for her] to come back… The love they show one another is pure and unconditional. It’s something we can all learn from and it’s very heartwarming to witness.”

Chaba and Pyi Mai arrived at the sanctuary in the company of their mothers, after being rescued from tourist attractions where they were mistreated. But now they won’t have to worry about their difficult past, because in their new home, the female elephants will be able to live out the rest of their lives in a herd, just as they would in the wild.

The story of Chaba and Pyi Mae is a moving example of the power of friendship. These two female elephants have overcome obstacles and have formed a lasting bond that will continue to strengthen over time. This friendship is a beautiful example of what can happen when we open our hearts and let others in.

The next time you feel bad, remember that there is always someone who loves you, even if they are not human. And if you ever doubt the power of a hug, ask Chaba and Pyi Mai, who have shown us that a hug can make the world seem like a better place.