Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo is thrilled to announce the birth of an Asian Elephant calf.
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The healthy female calf was born in the Elephant barn on Friday, June 14, 2018, at 3:07am to mother Porntip.
The calf was sired by Perth Zoo’s bull, Putra Mas via artificial insemination in late 2016.
The birth sees a new genetic blood line created in the Australasian region’s Asian Elephant population.
Taronga has now welcomed six elephant calves across both Zoos since the breeding program commenced 12 years ago, with four calves born in Sydney and two at Dubbo.
The calf was standing on its own within the first hour and is now suckling from mother Porntip.
Keepers and vets monitored Porntip throughout the labour and birth of the calf, with staff staying overnight at the elephant barn for the past week to keep a close eye on her.
“Everything went to plan with the birthing process,” Elephant Keeper, Bradd Johnston said.
“Porntip and the calf are doing well and are spending time together in the elephant barn and behind the scenes paddock.
“Porntip is a very maternal elephant and already we are pleased with the attentive and nurturing behaviour we are observing.”
This successful breeding program is just one aspect of Taronga’s work in conserving this species.
Mother and calf will be given further time to bond behind-the-scenes before making their public debut.
The Zoo will soon be announcing a competition to help choose a name for the calf.