Photo: Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images News / Getty Images
In celebration of Earth Day, the Smithsonian's National Zoo in Washington, D.C., proudly introduced Linh Mai, the first Asian elephant calf born at the zoo in nearly 25 years, to the public on Wednesday (April 22). The 2-month-old calf, whose name means "spirit blossom" in Vietnamese, has been bonding with her herd since her birth on February 2.
Linh Mai's debut marks a significant milestone for the zoo and the conservation of the critically endangered Asian elephant species.
Visitors can now see Linh Mai at the Elephant Trails exhibit, which features both indoor and outdoor habitats.
The calf's mother, Nhi Linh, initially showed aggression towards her, a common behavior for first-time elephant mothers. However, the zoo's elephant care team has been facilitating positive interactions between Linh Mai and her herd, including "aunties" Swarna and Bozie, who have shown nurturing behaviors.
"She's sassy. She definitely has a little bit of attitude," said Robbie Clark, an elephant manager at the National Zoo, according to ABC News.
The zoo's efforts have been documented in a digital series titled Have You Herd?, which highlights Linh Mai's journey and the zoo's conservation work.
Visitors can also watch Linh Mai on the zoo's Elephant Cam, allowing fans worldwide to follow her development.
In addition to Linh Mai's public debut, the zoo is hosting an elephant painting giveaway featuring artwork created by Linh Mai's parents, Spike and Nhi Linh.
For more information on Linh Mai and the zoo's conservation efforts, visit the Smithsonian's National Zoo website.