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Dublin Zoo have announced the birth of a male Asian elephant calf. Proud Mum, Yasmin, gave birth to the healthy calf on Monday afternoon, 15 May, after a 22-month gestation period. The calf is estimated to be one metre tall and weighs approximately 130kg.
This new arrival is Yasmin’s fourth calf and the sixth elephant calf born at Dublin Zoo in less than three years. The new-born will join the herd of 10 Asian elephants, including father Upali, in the Kaziranga Forest Trail.
The arrival of the new calf was a truly special moment for the entire Dublin Zoo team. Commenting on the latest addition to the Asian elephant herd was Operations Manager at Dublin Zoo, Gerry Creighton:
“It is with immense pride that we announce the birth of the latest addition to the Asian elephant herd here at Dublin Zoo.
“The birth of an Asian elephant is an amazing spectacle and this was no exception. The arrival of the calf was greeted with celebratory trumpeting and each member of the herd, from the oldest to youngest, played a role in assisting with the birth.
“We’ve been on an incredible journey over the past three years, overseeing the birth of six elephants calves, placing Dublin Zoo as one of the most successful Asian elephant breeding programs in the world. The recent births are of huge significance for the future of the endangered Asian elephant.”
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