Shanghai Wild Animal Park announced on Aug 12 the birth of an African elephant calf, the third addition to the park's elephant family in just six months.

The calf, which was delivered by her mother Lu Si in May, weighed about 90 kilograms at birth, and is in good health.

It lives in a specially designated nursery area with her mother, alongside two other mother elephants and their calves.

Zookeepers said the arrangement allows experienced mothers to pass on maternal skills to foster natural parenting behaviors.

As a first-time mother, Lu Si initially struggled with nursing, but with the help of keepers she quickly adapted and began feeding her calf successfully.

She also received support from other mother elephants, while the calf has grown playful, often interacting with the two other young elephants.

The zoo noted that breeding African elephants in captivity is highly challenging, as the animals are very sensitive to climate, diet, and social environment. After nearly a decade of dedicated effort, the zoo has achieved breakthroughs in captive elephant reproduction.

The birth of three calves within six months not only brings joy to the wildlife community but also underscores the park's ongoing commitment to conserving this vulnerable species.

Source: Shanghai Observer