Long wait is over: After 20 months, Oregon Zoo’s Asian elephant, Rose-Tu, has delivered her baby
- A joyous moment unfurled at the Oregon Zoo this weekend as Rose-Tu, a 30-year-old Asian elephant, gave birth to a healthy baby girl.
- Saturday evening around 4:29 PM, Rose-Tu's patience paid off as her baby slipped into the world, weighing a robust 200 pounds.
- "I've witnessed many births, but this one was remarkably smooth," shared Steve Lefave, lead elephant keeper at the zoo.
Healthy Baby Elephant Welcomed at Oregon Zoo
A joyous moment unfurled at the Oregon Zoo this weekend as Rose-Tu, a 30-year-old Asian elephant, gave birth to a healthy baby girl. After an arduous 20-month pregnancy, the calf’s arrival sparked celebrations among the zoo’s staff and elephant enthusiasts alike.
Saturday evening around 4:29 PM, Rose-Tu’s patience paid off as her baby slipped into the world, weighing a robust 200 pounds. The newborn elephant began her demanding journey with remarkable aplomb, standing within 15 minutes of birth and taking her first tentative steps soon after.
"I’ve witnessed many births, but this one was remarkably smooth," shared Steve Lefave, lead elephant keeper at the zoo. "Rose was a pro, gently nudging her baby up and facilitating her first steps. It was truly heartwarming."
The zoo’s veterinary team has been attentively monitoring Rose-Tu and her calf, with the first formal check-up pending their readiness. However, initial observations hint at a smooth transition for the new family.
"Rose is already proving to be an exceptional mother, Palme [the calf] is nursing well, and the bond between them is visibly strong," Lefave revealed. "We’re standing by, ready to assist if needed, but it’s truly wonderful to witness the natural maternal instincts at play."
While the new arrival was not ready for public viewing at the time of this reporting, eager spectators can look forward to welcoming her in Forest Hall once mother and calf are comfortable with an audience.
The birth of Palme underscores the zoo’s commitment to Asian elephant conservation, a species critically endangered in the wild due to habitat loss, human conflict, and disease. The Oregon Zoo has been championing elephant conservation for over six decades and has dedicated a $1 million endowment fund to support these efforts.
In an area where 20% of the world’s population resides alongside these gentle giants, every birth represents hope, reminding us of our shared existence and the urgent need for their protection.