The Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, D.C., has announced that one of its Asian elephants, Nhi Linh, is pregnant, marking the first elephant birth at the zoo in 25 years. The 12-year-old elephant is expected to deliver her calf between mid-January and early March 2026. Nhi Linh’s pregnancy is particularly significant as Asian elephants are an endangered species, with fewer than 50,000 left in the wild.
Nhi Linh was bred with Spike, a 44-year-old male elephant, in April 2024. Spike has previously sired three calves at other zoos, though none survived. This will be Nhi Linh’s first calf. According to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, the pregnancy is progressing well, and they are cautiously optimistic about the outcome.
Robbie Clark, the assistant curator and elephant manager, expressed excitement about the upcoming birth, saying, “There are no words, really, to describe how excited we are to welcome a new addition here at the zoo.” The zoo is taking extensive measures to ensure the health and well-being of both Nhi Linh and her calf, including regular ultrasounds and hormone monitoring. Veterinarian Dr. James Steeil told TODAY that the ultrasounds show positive signs for a normal delivery.
The zoo is also preparing the elephant enclosure to accommodate the newborn calf, addressing potential safety concerns such as narrow gaps that a young calf could slip through. Additionally, the zoo has launched a $23 million fundraising campaign to support its Asian elephant conservation efforts over the next five years.
Brandie Smith, Director of the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, emphasized the importance of the birth, stating, “This calf represents real hope for the future of Asian elephants.” The zoo plans to keep the public updated on Nhi Linh’s progress through its website and social media channels.
Recent Comments