Semba, the matriarch of Reid Park Zoo’s African elephant herd, is pregnant. Semba gave birth to Nandi, the first elephant born at Reid Park Zoo, in 2014, and her youngest calf, Penzi, turned three years old recently. Mabu, the father to all of Semba’s calves, left Reid Park Zoo in 2022. Elephant gestation is between 22 and 24 months, and Semba is a little over halfway through her pregnancy. The Animal Care Staff is closely monitoring Semba’s pregnancy. Every herd member will have a role in raising the new baby and strengthening Reid Park Zoo’s family herd structure.
Introduction
There is some exciting news for Tucson’s animal-loving community! Reid Park Zoo is gearing up for the arrival of a new resident – a baby elephant! The adorable creature will be born in spring 2024, filling the zoo with pride and joy. With this news, visitors can expect some changes at the zoo. The arrival of a new elephant calf is a momentous occasion that requires the utmost care and attention.
Preparing for the Arrival
As the due date of the baby elephant approaches, the zookeepers are busy preparing to welcome the newest member to the elephant family. Raising a baby elephant is challenging, and zookeepers must ensure the calf’s health and safety.
The zookeepers have to prepare a dedicated space for the baby elephant to provide the necessary care. Reid Park Zoo has already started the construction of an Elephant Barn, a facility that will cater to all the needs of the elephant family. The Barn will include a Calving Suite, providing round-the-clock care for the newborn calf.
Reid Park Zoo’s Elephant Family
Reid Park Zoo’s Elephant family currently consists of two female Asian Elephants, Rosie and Nandi, and one male, Sundzu. The soon-to-be mother, Nandi, is a seventeen-year-old elephant who arrived from the San Diego Zoo in 2014.
The Arrival of the Newborn Elephant
The birth of a baby elephant is a crucial moment that requires vigilant attention to ensure the calf’s health and safety. Reid Park Zoo’s team of veterinarians and zookeepers will have to monitor every aspect of the baby elephant’s health from the moment of its birth.
The baby elephant’s arrival will be exciting for visitors as they see the little one exploring its habitat and cuddling with its mother. The zoo will introduce the baby to the public after a few weeks to give it time to bond with its mother.
Conclusion
The baby elephant’s arrival at Reid Park Zoo is excellent news for Tucson residents. The zookeepers are giving the little one the best start in life by providing a safe and secure environment. The zookeepers work tirelessly to ensure the calf receives the best care possible. Reid Park Zoo invites everyone to come and witness this momentous occasion and be a part of the baby elephant’s journey.
