A zoo in Cologne, Germany, is rejoicing over the recent arrival of a baby elephant. The newborn calf, whose name and sex are yet to be determined, was born to ten-year-old mother Bindi on Tuesday. Bindi herself was born in the Cologne Elephant Park back in 2012.
The adorable baby elephant has been staying close to its mother and aunt, seeking their protection and guidance in these early days of life. The herd has been kept in an indoor enclosure to shield the calf from the sun and ensure its well-being.
Professor Theo Pagel, Director and Elephant Curator at Cologne Zoo, expressed his satisfaction with the calf’s condition. He mentioned that it is walking confidently, albeit with small steps, and appears to be in good health. The newborn’s weight is estimated to be around 80 to 100 kilograms, although an exact measurement has not been taken yet.
This joyful event marks the thirteenth elephant birth in Cologne, highlighting the zoo’s successful breeding efforts. The father of the newborn is Sang Raja, a 24-year-old elephant who currently resides at Pont-Scorff Zoo on the French Atlantic coast. The recommendation to transfer Sang Raja to the French zoo came from the European Conservation Breeding Program for Asian Elephants.
As the young elephant continues to grow and develop, zookeepers and visitors alike eagerly await the opportunity to determine its gender and bestow upon it a fitting name. In the meantime, the zookeepers are providing the utmost care and attention to ensure the health and happiness of the baby elephant.
The birth of a new member of the elephant family brings joy and hope, not only to the zoo but also to animal enthusiasts worldwide. It serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts and the preservation of these majestic creatures for generations to come.