Semba, an African elephant at the Reid Park Zoo, in Tucson, delivered a female calf at 10:55 p.m. on August 20, 2014, after being in labor for only 20 minutes. The new calf took a first breath immediately and stood up within minutes after being born.
The calf began to nurse within the hour. The calf weighs 245lbs but has not been named yet.
The first 48-72 hours following the birth are the most critical for Semba and her calf to form a strong physical and emotional bond, according to the zookeepers. Absolutely no visitors or non-essential staff members are being admitted to the Elephant Care Center at this time.
Once the calf is nursing regularly and following Semba instinctively, additional areas of the holding facility will be opened for them to explore. Keepers will also be watching to make sure Semba is eating, drinking, and recovering normally from the physical stresses of labor. As the calf gains strength, she will be introduced to the rest of the herd.