George in debut walk

The trunk-to-tail trek was to mark George’s first birthday on April 12 and came after successful training by his keepers to ensure that he doesn’t wander off or get distracted by the busy zoo during the trip.

The jumbo walkabout is a rite of passage for a young elephant calf at Whipsnade and George is following in the footsteps of half sister Donna and big brother Euan.

On the walk George holds his favourite “aunty” Lucha’s tail with his trunk, while his own tail is held by mum Karishma.

Two and a half miles in length, the route takes in the wonderful views across Aylesbury Vale from the top of the Chiltern Downs as well as the sights and sounds of the zoo.

Assistant curator of elephants, Lee Sambrook, said: “It’s great exercise for George, stimulates him and provides great enrichment as well as being very good for public awareness of our elephants. It’s wonderful for visitors to see them out and about.”

Visitors will be able to see George with the herd on their walk each day during the Easter holidays.