If you've been following along with the Columbus Zoo's elephant baby watch, you're in for the sweetest update yet—the first of two Asian elephant calves has arrived, right here in Ohio, and she's thriving!
In the early morning hours of July 23, first-time elephant mom Sundara (“Sunny”) gave birth to a healthy baby girl after a 22-month pregnancy. The calf is already stealing hearts with her curious trunk, wobbly steps, and strong bond with mom. This marks a monumental moment for the Zoo—and a joyful step forward for Asian elephant conservation efforts across the globe.
And the excitement isn’t over. Phoebe, a longtime favorite in the herd and a devoted mother, is also pregnant and due to welcome her own calf this fall.
A Big Milestone for Sunny—and Her Species
Sunny is 16 years old and already proving to be an amazing mom. She’s attentive, nurturing, and fully focused on her newborn daughter, who’s currently staying close by her side. The two are behind the scenes in the Zoo’s Asia Quest region, where they’ll have plenty of quiet time to rest, bond, and meet other members of the herd at their own pace.
Though she isn’t viewable to the public just yet, the calf is being carefully monitored by our Animal Care and Conservation Medicine teams around the clock. Every trunk lift, tail swish, and tiny step is helping her grow stronger by the day.
And if you’re wondering who the proud father is—it’s Sabu, who returned to the Cincinnati Zoo in 2024 after a temporary stay at the Columbus Zoo. His pairing with Sunny was recommended through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan®, which helps ensure healthy, diverse populations of endangered species like the Asian elephant.
What’s Next for This Little Elephant?
As Sunny and her calf continue bonding, our team will share updates on when guests might be able to visit, plus details on naming and baby milestones—so be sure to follow us on social media to stay in the loop!
This is also a special opportunity for guests to learn more about elephants at any age. Visit the Asian Elephant Conservation Center in the Zoo's Asia Quest region to explore our herd’s habitat, learn fun facts about elephant behavior, and discover how your visit supports elephant conservation here in Ohio and across the world.
Why This Baby Elephant Matters So Much
Asian elephants are endangered, with fewer than 50,000 remaining in their native ranges due to habitat loss and poaching. Every birth in professional care matters—not only for the individual calf, but for the future of the entire species.
Here at the Columbus Zoo, we’re working hard to change the story. Our team leads the AZA SAFE: Asian Elephant program, an initiative that leverages collective expertise to protect the species’ future. We also support field conservation through the International Elephant Foundation, and we also play a pivotal role in fighting the Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV) through diagnostic testing and national collaboration.
Most recently, we helped establish the Center for Species Survival for Asian Elephant (CSS Asian Elephant)—the first of its kind in the world that focuses on this species—located in India, at the heart of the species' native range. This global partnership is uniting researchers, veterinarians, and conservationists to create a better future for elephants everywhere.
Help Us Celebrate!
Whether you're a long-time supporter, a new visitor, or someone who just loves elephants as much as we do—thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Your Zoo visit, your membership, and your enthusiasm make moments like this possible.
A baby Asian elephant in Ohio is a beautiful reminder of what’s possible when we all work together for wildlife.
And with another elephant calf on the way this fall, the adventure is just beginning.
Stay tuned for more baby updates, behind-the-scenes peeks, and ways to get involved. The future is brighter—and a whole lot cuter—thanks to supporters like you.
