Last week in Zimbabwe, a young elephant became trapped in a pit of mud and was stuck there for around 24 hours. When the mud-covered youngster was discovered, rescuers sprang into action and called in the assistance of a bulldozer.

As the bulldozer worked to shave down the sides of the pit, the elephant’s fellow herd members waited anxiously nearby. The weakened elephant was unable to get up, even after the sides of the pit had been leveled by the bulldozer, and at first remained motionless.

Aside from saving its life, getting water to the elephant was a top priority for the rescuers. The smell of water also seems to be helpful for encouraging trapped elephants to move. As the elephant was splashed with water, he finally emerged from the mud and ran away.

Watch this video to witness the admirable rescue and the elephant’s return to freedom!