Individuals have fallen in love with this herd of untamed elephants searching for a brand new habitat in China

In April, a herd of 15 elephants in China meandered more than 800 miles from Pu’er City to Kunming City in June, winning legions of fans in the process.

The herd, which officials said was finally reaching a protected habitat in southwest China’s Yunnan Province, had emigrated in search of food and a home, although no one knew exactly where they were going. According to Reuters, government conservation efforts have caused the wild elephant population in the Chinese state of Xishuangbanna to double since 1978. Banning hunting activities also increases the willingness of elephants to invade human communities.

More than 150,000 people have been evacuated from their homes on the elephant trail, but the animals have become local favorites as fans watch their progress. For World Elephant Day on August 12, we’re going to take a look at some of the highlights of their trip.