US EditionA large ‘charismatic’ animal is about to be born at DC’s National Zoo — an Asian elephant
The pregnancy supports genetic diversity under the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan; Asian elephants number fewer than 50,000 worldwide, zoo officials said.
- On Monday, the Smithsonian's National Zoo announced 12-year-old Nhi Linh is pregnant and staff expect a birth sometime between mid-January and early March, the first elephant calf in nearly 25 years.
- Guided by studbook analysis, staff arranged a pairing between Nhi Linh and Spike, recommended by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan to maintain genetic diversity.
- Veterinarians report that Dr. Donald Neiffer's team uses ultrasounds, blood tests and progesterone tracking while Nhi Linh cooperates, with Dr. James Steill noting the fetus weighs between 150 and 175 pounds.
- The zoo plans to raise $23 million for elephant conservation and has installed an Elephant Cam, while Smith said, `The first step to saving any species is getting people to care. As animal ambassadors, elephant calves are as charming and charismatic as they come,` Smith said.
- Given prior calf losses and pregnancy risks, the zoo is closely monitoring Nhi Linh after late last month hormone tests suggested the fetus may no longer be viable, with updates planned.
12 Articles
12 Articles
This ‘Feisty’ Asian Elephant at the National Zoo Is Pregnant. She May Birth the First Calf Born There in Nearly 25 Years
With fewer than 50,000 Asian elephants estimated to be remaining in the wild, the Smithsonian’s announcement gives hope to those working to preserve the endangered species
The Smithsonian National Zoo in DC prepares for the birth of a great “charismatic and charming” animal: an Asian elephant calf. Zoo officials announced Monday morning that an Asian elephant is expected to give birth between mid-January and early March 2026.
The Smithsonian National Zoo announces first elephant birth in 25 years
WASHINGTON (NBC, KYMA) - The Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington, D.C. is expecting a new addition soon as one of the zoo's elephants, Nhi Linh, is expected to give birth this winter. This is significant because it is the first time in 25 years that an elephant has been pregnant at the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington, D.C., and they are very confident that this baby will be born healthy sometime this winter, but they're closely monitor…
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