Washington, D.C. – The Smithsonian National Zoo celebrated a milestone as public enthusiasm crowned its newest Asian elephant calf with the name Linh Mai after a donation-driven vote raised almost $60,000 for conservation efforts.[1][2]
A Long-Awaited Birth Sparks Excitement
The female calf arrived on February 2, 2026, at 1:15 a.m. in the Elephant Barn. Her mother, 12-year-old Nhi Linh, delivered after a 21-month pregnancy recommended by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan. Father Spike, aged 44, contributed genes underrepresented in zoo populations.
At birth, the calf weighed 308 pounds and stood 38.5 inches tall. She stood on her own within five hours, passing a thorough neonatal exam that checked her heart, lungs, limbs, and more. Nhi Linh, a first-time mother, received support nearby from her own mother, 22-year-old Trong Nhi, and 51-year-old herd mate Bozie.[2]
Brandie Smith, director of the National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, captured the moment’s importance. “After waiting nearly 25 years for an Asian elephant calf, this birth fills us with profound joy,” she said. “I’m incredibly proud of our team, whose expertise made this moment possible.”[2]
Public Vote Delivers a Winner
From February 3 to 12, supporters cast votes by donating at least $5 online, with each dollar equaling one vote. The contest generated $58,892.70 to fund Asian elephant care and research. Linh Mai emerged victorious with 39 percent of the support.
| Name | Donations Raised | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Linh Mai | $22,885 | 39% |
| Tú Anh | $20,627 | 35% |
| Tuyết | $8,154 | 14% |
| Thảo Nhi | $7,227 | 12% |
All four options drew from Nhi Linh’s Vietnamese heritage. The funds bolster programs in genetics, health, and rewilding, as federal budgets cover only basic care.[1]
Spirit Blossom Honors Heritage
Linh Mai, pronounced LIN-my, translates to “spirit blossom” in Vietnamese. Linh signifies “spirit” or “soul,” while Mai evokes the apricot blossom tied to Tết, the Lunar New Year starting February 17. This choice connected directly to her mother’s roots.
Other contenders included Tú Anh for “talented, gifted, bright,” Tuyết meaning “snow” to nod at her winter arrival, and Thảo Nhi for “gentle and beloved.” The name resonated widely, reflecting cultural depth and seasonal timing.[1]
Behind-the-Scenes Bonding Builds Strength
Keepers now focus on family integration off-exhibit. The calf bonds with Nhi Linh, grandmother Trong Nhi, Bozie, and father Spike under close supervision. Staff baby-proof habitats by adding sand, adjusting barriers, and creating safe zones.
The Elephant Community Center remains closed for quiet, prioritizing the sensitive species’ social needs. Over the first weeks, the team worked around the clock to foster positive relationships. Linh Mai’s public debut awaits this spring, weather and health permitting, followed by her Elephant Cam appearance.[3][2]
Key Milestone for a Vulnerable Species
This birth marks the first Asian elephant calf at the zoo in nearly 25 years, amid a wild population below 50,000. It advances the Species Survival Plan’s goals for genetic diversity. Zoo research on herpesvirus, reproduction, and movement in Laos and Myanmar aids global protection.
Key Takeaways:
- First zoo elephant birth in 25 years strengthens North American herd genetics.
- Naming contest raised $58,893, fueling vital conservation research.
- Spring debut promises worldwide views via livestream.
Linh Mai embodies hope for Asian elephants, blending public passion with scientific progress. As she grows amid her herd, her story underscores the power of collective action. What do you think of the name Linh Mai? Tell us in the comments.
