Indian officials use excavator to rescue elephant stuck in muddy pool

Officials in Bandipur Tiger Reserve, southern India, used an excavator to help an elephant escape a muddy pool.

Officials in Bandipur Tiger Reserve, southern India, used an excavator to help an elephant escape a muddy pool.

Footage from May 15 shows the elephant on its side struggling to find its feet in the slippery pit.

An excavator is then used to help lift the animal up enough so it could plant its feet and regain its balance.

After the elephant escaped the mud, the local officials kept an eye on it to ensure its health.

It then gradually made its way back into the forest.