Allan McKenzie, a skilled didgeridoo player from Australia, recently performed uniquely for two elephants at ABQ BioPark.
Invited as a consultant for the zoo’s Australia expansion, McKenzie was asked to play for the elephants, Alice and Irene.
As McKenzie prepared, Alice and Irene stood by the fence, eating and watching curiously. The didgeridoo, a traditional Australian wind instrument known for its distinctive sound, rested on a small fence before McKenzie.
With a practiced ease, McKenzie began to play, captivating the elephants. They immediately perked up, moving closer to him, with one even spinning in place.
The elephants seemed fascinated, watching intently as McKenzie played. To them, the didgeridoo might have resembled an elephant trunk.
The elephants started dancing and cheering as the music continued, using their mouths and trunks. At one point, McKenzie lifted the didgeridoo into the air, prompting the elephants to raise their trunks and let out trumpet-like sounds in response.
The performance was a delightful success, with McKenzie clapping for the elephants and zoo employees applauding the musicians and the animals. Alice and Irene’s joyful reaction thrilled everyone present.