Historic Birth: Asian Elephant Calf Arrives at Washington D.C. Zoo- First in Nearly 25 Years

Washington, D.C.’s Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute is celebrating a rare and joyful milestone after an Asian elephant calf was born on February 2, 2026, the first such birth at the zoo in almost a quarter of a century.

The female calf arrived at 1:15 a.m. local time, weighing about 308 pounds (140 kg) and measuring approximately 38.5 inches tall, and was declared healthy and alert by zoo veterinarians following initial examinations.

The newborn’s mother, Nhi Linh, a 12-year-old Asian elephant, experienced a typical elephant pregnancy lasting about 21 months before giving birth, while her father, Spike, aged 44, has previously sired calves at other institutions — though none of his earlier offspring survived. For Nhi Linh, this is her first calf and marks a significant success for the zoo’s breeding program.

Officials said the birth is especially meaningful for conservation efforts, as both Nhi Linh and Spike carry genetic lineages that are underrepresented in zoos, helping to enhance the genetic diversity of Asian elephants in human care.

Asian elephants are listed as an endangered species, with wild populations declining due to habitat loss, human–wildlife conflict and other threats.

The calf will remain behind the scenes for several weeks to bond with her mother and the elephant herd before appearing in public.

In celebration of her arrival, the zoo has invited the public to help name the calf through a fundraising vote: people can donate to choose from four names of Vietnamese origin, Linh Mai, Thảo Nhi, Tú Anh or Tuyế,t reflecting Nhi Linh’s heritage. Proceeds from the naming vote support elephant care and conservation programs.

Zoo officials expressed profound joy at the birth, noting how rare and special it is for the institution. They said they hope the calf’s arrival will not only delight visitors but also raise awareness about the broader challenges facing Asian elephants in the wild.

SOURCES: Reuters, The Guardian, NBC Washington, Anadolu Agency