Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Asian Baby Elephant Linh Mai Debuts on Earth Day at Smithsonian Zoo

4/23/2026

33 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Linh Mai, a two-month-old Asian elephant, debuted at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo on Earth Day.
She was born on Feb. 2 to mother Nhi Linh and father Spike after a nearly two-year pregnancy.
Elder elephant Swarna has taken a surrogate role, regularly checking on Linh Mai and teaching her trunk use.
Officials note fewer than 50,000 Asian elephants remain in the wild.
They hope the zoo’s program will increase public support.

1 of 1

Story summary

Linh Mai, a two-month-old Asian elephant, debuted at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo on Earth Day.
She was born on Feb. 2 to mother Nhi Linh and father Spike after a nearly two-year pregnancy.
Elder elephant Swarna has taken a surrogate role, regularly checking on Linh Mai and teaching her trunk use.
Officials note fewer than 50,000 Asian elephants remain in the wild.
They hope the zoo’s program will increase public support.