By 1808Delaware
At 4:26 AM on Wednesday, July 23, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s elephant family grew by one—an energetic, wobbly, and utterly adorable 215-pound calf born to first-time mom Sundara, affectionately known as “Sunny.” The 16-year-old Asian elephant delivered her baby after a 22-month pregnancy, marking a major milestone in the Zoo’s ongoing conservation work.
For now, Sunny and her newborn are bonding behind the scenes, away from public view. The calf, a female, is nursing well, taking her first curious steps, and already winning hearts with her tiny trunk and budding personality.
A First for Sunny—and a First for 2025
This birth is the first of two highly anticipated elephant arrivals at the Columbus Zoo this year. Phoebe, a 38-year-old experienced matriarch, is due this fall. That means double the excitement—and double the baby elephant joy—for guests and animal care teams alike.
“This is an incredibly special moment for our entire team and community,” said Tom Schmid, President and CEO of the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds. “Every birth brings hope and reminds us why this work matters for the future of their species.”
Care, Commitment, and Conservation
Sunny has shown remarkable maternal instincts already, a testament to the close relationship she shares with her care team. Her calf’s father, Sabu, currently resides at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, but spent time in Columbus for a breeding recommendation through the Species Survival Plan®—a cooperative effort managed by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) to ensure the survival of endangered species.
“Sunny’s progress as a first-time mom has been incredible to witness,” said Adam Felts, Vice President of Animal Care. “This birth is the result of years of planning, daily commitment, and a deep understanding of her needs.”
Sunny shares the Asia Quest habitat with her sister Rudy (age 23), Phoebe, young Frankie (Phoebe’s 2021 calf), and Johnson (age 24). Over time, the new calf will be introduced to these familiar faces, adding another chapter to the Zoo’s growing elephant family story.
Conservation in Action—Locally and Globally
Asian elephants are listed as Endangered in the wild, with fewer than 50,000 remaining across southern and southeastern Asia. The Columbus Zoo is at the forefront of conservation efforts, both in Ohio and abroad. Through support for the International Elephant Foundation, field research, and a strong breeding program, the Zoo works to safeguard these giants for generations to come.
One of the Zoo’s key conservation tools is its on-site diagnostic lab, which helps combat Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV), a lethal virus affecting elephants worldwide. The Columbus Zoo also co-leads the AZA SAFE: Asian Elephant Program and has partnered with the Wildlife Trust of India to establish the world’s first Center for Species Survival dedicated to Asian elephants.
Looking Ahead
Although Sunny and her calf are not yet visible to the public, guests can still learn about elephants and conservation at the Zoo’s Asian Elephant Conservation Center. Plans for introducing the calf to visitors, a public naming process, and more milestones will be shared via the Zoo’s social media channels and website.
In the meantime, the bond between a young elephant and her mother grows stronger every day, quietly but powerfully shaping the future of their species. For the Columbus Zoo, this summer isn’t just big—it’s monumental.
Source, Image: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
