Pedicuring an elephant requires some effort - swapping the usual nail brush and file for something more substancial for a start, which is what keepers at China's Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo have had to do.

The park's herd were recently due a trim, as animals in captivity do not wear their toenails down as quickly as they do in the wild.

Failing to sort the problem can lead to a build-up of dirt or injuries which in turn can cause serious infections and other health problems.

Keepers at the zoo had a little help from full-sized floor brooms, 60cm long steel files, and a healthy supply of apples to keep the "customers" quiet.