Smithsonian's National Zoo Welcomes First Asian Elephant Calf in 25 Years Through Conservation Breeding Program
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Summary
The Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute has welcomed the birth of a female Asian elephant calf, the first at the zoo in nearly 25 years. The calf was born to 12-year-old mother Nhi Linh and 44-year-old father Spike through a planned breeding program. This birth is significant for conservation efforts as Asian elephants are endangered, and the calf will help strengthen genetic diversity in the captive population since both parents' genes are not well represented in zoos.
Key quotes
· 4 pulledFor the first time in nearly 25 years, elephant care staff at the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) are celebrating the birth of an Asian elephant—an endangered species.
The female calf was born overnight Feb. 2 at 1:15 a.m. to 12-year-old mother Nhi Linh and 44-year-old father Spike.
The pair bred in April 2024 following a breeding recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan (SSP).
Because Nhi Linh and Spike's genes are not well represented in zoos, their calf will help strengthen the genetic diversity of the Asian elephant population in North America and around the world.
For the first time in nearly 25 years, elephant care staff at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) are celebrating the birth of an Asian elephant—an endangered species. The female calf was born overnight Feb. 2 at 1:15
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