Elephants make sweet music

Two elephants at West Midland Safari Park certainly know how to hold a tune after learning to play the harmonica.

Talented giants Five and Latabe, aged 17 and 16, are now performing as a duet at the Bewdley-based attraction.

Keepers have been amazed at how quickly the African pair have taken to the small instrument and now they are wowing visitors with their tunes. They are also particularly fond of rock music and are instantly calmed when they hear Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin and Metallica.

Like good heavy metallers, the elephants can be distressed if the music is turned off. They throw tantrums becoming increasingly agitated and pacing up and down. Five has also made a name for herself in the art world. Her paintings are so popular they are being sold as unique works of art at the safari park's shop at £95 for each canvas.

Spokesman Wendy Jackson said: "Elephants Latabe and Five have lived at West Midland Safari Park since they were five-year-old orphans and they have both developed an extra-ordinary liking for the arts and showing off their remarkable skills."