Callie: The Majestic New Star of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium



Just as the sun began to grace the sky one morning, a captivating procession was seen rolling down Ninth Street towards the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium. Two black vans were escorting a large truck housing a gray, prism-shaped crate. Inside this mysterious crate was the Zoo’s newest resident – an African bull elephant named Callie​1​.

Callie’s story is one of a journey that spans hundreds of miles. Originating from the Birmingham Zoo in Alabama, he was chosen for a special mission: to participate in the breeding program at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium​1​. Callie’s trip, which took a grueling twenty hours, involved pit stops for hydration and snacks, including sliced fruit and whole cantaloupes and watermelons​1​.

The journey’s successful completion was a testament to the precision and care with which it was planned and executed. The crate, tailored specifically for elephant transport, boasted five security bars and foot straps, ensuring Callie’s safety throughout his 14-hour non-stop journey​1​.

The anticipation was palpable as the motorcade drew closer to the zoo. It wasn’t just about adding another elephant to the zoo’s existing seven; it was about welcoming a new family member. Callie was joining a herd that included five females and another male, Louie. The hope was that Callie, unlike Louie, would be able to contribute to the propagation of his species​1​.

The excitement surrounding Callie’s arrival was not limited to his expected role in the breeding program. His presence brought an added layer of depth to the zoo’s elephant family. In particular, his arrival marked a significant milestone for Lolly, an 11-year-old African elephant at the zoo. Lolly gave birth to a healthy male calf on March 2, 2023, at 2:20 a.m., marking Callie’s debut as a father at the zoo. This joyous event was the result of an around-the-clock care and monitoring of Lolly, ensuring a smooth delivery​2​.

Callie’s arrival and the birth of Lolly’s calf have not only enhanced the genetic diversity at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium but have also opened up avenues for an enriching and educational experience for visitors. While the Elephant Family Quarters is temporarily closed to allow Lolly and her calf some quiet bonding time, guests are eagerly waiting to see all three of Callie’s calves with the herd once the quarters are reopened​2​.

Callie’s story is not just about his journey from Alabama to Nebraska. It’s about the care, planning, and cooperation between the two zoos. It’s about the dedication of the zookeepers, who followed along and provided reassurance to Callie at stops during the trip and even stayed in Omaha for a few days to help with his transition to his new home​1​.

As we look forward to the anticipated arrival of the fourth elephant calf in late summer, we’re reminded that the story of Callie and his family is an ongoing narrative of conservation, education, and the celebration of life. So, let’s cheer for Callie, the newest star of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, and wait in anticipation for the exciting chapters yet to unfold.

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