Feb 4, 2026 - Things to Do

D.C. zoo welcomes baby Asian elephant

Anna Spiegel

A group of caretakers wearing boots and casual clothes surround and handle a small, dark-skinned baby elephant inside a barn or enclosure. — A rare Asian elephant calf was just born at the zoo — a first in nearly 25 years. Photo: Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

A rare Asian elephant calf was just born at the zoo — a first in nearly 25 years. Photo: Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

There's a new elephant in the room.

Why it matters: For the first time in nearly 25 years, the National Zoo is celebrating the birth of an endangered Asian elephant — a big win for conservation and cuteness.

First-time mom Nhi Linh and dad Spike met their baby girl Monday.

What's next: The public can help name her (for a $5 donation), picking between four Vietnamese names like her mom's.

So no, "Snowcreteling" is not an option.

🥰 She'll spend her first month bonding off-exhibit before a public debut.

Close-up of a young gray elephant calf standing indoors on a textured floor, with parts of two people's legs and hands visible nearby. — You can name this sweetheart — a small donation goes to Asian elephant conservation. Photo: Courtesy Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

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D.C. zoo welcomes baby Asian elephant

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