We all have our own love language. From a simple message asking “How are you?” to cuddling, people have different ways of expressing their affection. These gestures can affirm one’s emotions. Some people tend to be vocal about their feelings but others believe that actions speak louder than words. This just might be the case for Tara, a two-month old Asian elephant calf (Elephas Maximus).

She may not be able to send her love across to human visitors through words but she would definitely let them know by her own means.

Asian elephants can grow between 7 and 10 feet and weigh from 2 to 6 tons. These herbivores are endangered. Luckily, these mammals have found their haven at Patara Elephant Farm where they are being protected and looked after.

Vivian H. uploaded on her YouTube channel the heartwarming video of her visit to the farm together with Arthur.

Patara Elephant Farm offers a program called “Elephant Owner for a Day” wherein guests can get hands-on experience in taking care of an elephant. They will be taught how to approach, feed, bathe and ride their elephant. Vivian says that they visited the farm because,

“Unlike other elephant parks in Chiang Mai, the staff and owners at Patara focus solely on the healthcare and the breeding management for these endangered species and aid the recovery process for elephants injured by mine bombs – tourists come second.”

Vivian and Arthur took part in learning and getting to know their elephant. Other than the daily activities mentioned above, the program also establishes trust and relationship between the visitors and the majestic species.

Before the day ends, Arthur beckoned the elephant calf, Tara, with arms wide open and she enthusiastically responded to him.

Tara approached Arthur and threw herself into his arms but he lost his balance and fell!

These calves can weigh from 200 to 260 pounds. If Arthur underestimated Tara’s weight, no doubt, he would find himself on the ground. And he loves it!

He tries his best to get up but to no avail. Tara pins his right leg down but instead of moving away from her, Arthur cuddled her even more!

Just when he is about to pull away, she once again wrestles him down by putting all of her weight on top of Arthur! She must be enjoying this!

Eventually, Tara leaves him be and she receives some more pats and rubs.

This delightful encounter has over 21.3 million views. Elephant mothers are said to be very protective of their young and will do anything to keep them away from harm but it is such a sight to see how Tara’s mom is so cool with humans playing with her calf.

It just goes to show how the farm has successfully created a loving and nurturing home for these adorable and warm creatures.

Check out Arthur and Tara’s wrestling match in the video below!

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Source: YouTube, Patara, National Geographic