Story perspectives

National Zoo Celebrates First Asian Elephant Calf in 25 Years

2/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Smithsonian’s National Zoo welcomed an Asian elephant calf on February 2, 2023, marking its first birth in nearly 25 years.
The female calf is important for conservation, as fewer than 52,000 Asian elephants remain in the wild.
Care staff are working to foster bonds between the calf and her mother, Nhi Linh, who initially struggled with maternal behaviors.
The zoo will not display the calf for at least a month to ensure her health and safety, while a naming poll engages the public.

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Story summary

The Smithsonian’s National Zoo welcomed an Asian elephant calf on February 2, 2023, marking its first birth in nearly 25 years.
The female calf is important for conservation, as fewer than 52,000 Asian elephants remain in the wild.
Care staff are working to foster bonds between the calf and her mother, Nhi Linh, who initially struggled with maternal behaviors.
The zoo will not display the calf for at least a month to ensure her health and safety, while a naming poll engages the public.