Baby Elephant's Name Revealed!

The Smithsonian's National Zoo has announced the name of its precious newborn Asian elephant: Linh Mai, a Vietnamese name meaning spirit blossom. This remarkable calf, weighing 308 pounds, is the first elephant born at the zoo in almost 25 years, a rare event in the institution's 136-year history. Her parents are Nhi Linh, the mother, and Spike, the father.

The public participated in naming the calf by donating to the zoo. Linh Mai was selected from four options, with the chosen name generating significant contributions. These funds will bolster the zoo's vital conservation efforts for Asian elephants, a species critically endangered with fewer than 50,000 individuals remaining globally.

While the calf's arrival on February 2nd was joyous, initial days presented challenges. The mother, Nhi Linh, exhibited protective behaviors that necessitated temporary separation for the newborn's safety. This is not uncommon for first-time elephant mothers. A "howdy" wall now facilitates safe interaction, allowing mother and calf to bond visually and audibly. The calf is being bottle-fed every two hours and is expected to make her public debut this spring.