Taronga Zoo welcomes their first Asian elephant calf, after an eight hour labour

THE arrival of this adorable elephant calf is a major milestone for Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

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THE arrival of this adorable elephant calf is a major milestone for Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

The unnamed newborn on Wednesday became the first Asian elephant born at the Dubbo Park.

Taronga is thrilled to announce the birth of the first Asian Elephant calf at Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo. Picture: Rick Stevens

Mother Thong Dee gave birth after an eight-hour labour in a private paddock, assisted by her sister Porntip, whose own offspring, Pathi Harn, will be the newborn’s six year-old cousin. Elephants make for a close knit family.

“Keepers are impressed how strong her calf is and mum is very attentive,” a zoo spokeswoman said.

“Within half an hour the calf was standing on its own and was suckling within hours.”

The unnamed calf was exploring his enclosure right next to his mother. Picture: Rick Stevens

Zoo director Matthew Fuller said the successful birth was a tribute to the hard work of Taronga’s keepers and veterinary staff.

“It’s a milestone achievement in the almost 40 year history of our zoo and we couldn’t be happier,” he said.

“Every birth is important as it helps to secure a future for this endangered species.”

Taronga Zoo couldn’t be more happy with the birth of the 95 kilo calf which will help endangered species. Picture: Rick Stevens

Thong Dee and her unnamed infant will be given further time to bond behind-the-scenes before making their public debut next week, where the zoo is expected to announce a competition to name the youngster.