Historic Elephant Pregnancy: British Zoo Welcomes Baby After Unprecedented Two-Year Gestation

In a remarkable occurrence at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, Bedfordshire, an Asian pachyderm named Azizah delivered offspring after an astonishing 700-day gestation period, setting a new record for the lengthiest pregnancy documented at a British zoo. This extraordinary period of carrying young lasted 84 days longer than the average timeframe for elephants.

The arrival of the infant pachyderm, still awaiting identification, has captivated the affections of zookeepers and visitors alike. Weighing merely 16 stone (104 kg) upon birth, the newborn is the tiniest in the annals of Whipsnade Zoo.

Mother Azizah and the freshest addition to the zoo’s Asian elephant group – a juvenile pachyderm brought forth following Whipsnade’s lengthiest pregnancyConcerns emerged amidst the keepers due to the calf’s diminutive stature, dreading that he might be unable to access his mother’s milk. Nevertheless, the astute minor calf promptly addressed this issue by mastering the technique of standing on his tiptoes.

Elephant attendant Lee Sambrook expressed joy at Azizah’s immediate connection with her third offspring and how the remainder of the herd is thrilled about the new inclusion.

You certainly took your time! It required Azizah 700 to deliver her third progenyFor elephants, being gregarious creatures, the presence of offspring is an integral component of their communal existence. The calf has already initiated ventures into the great outdoors, accompanied by the remainder of the herd.

As news spreads about this momentous and heartwarming episode, patrons are converging upon the zoo to witness the fledgling frolicking with his siblings and nursing from his mother.

This astounding journey of an almost two-year gestation has truly astounded all parties involved, and Azizah’s enduring commitment to her infant will be forever etched in the memories of those fortunate enough to bear witness to this natural marvel.

Warm greetings: The minuscule calf, yet to receive a name, entered the world last Tuesday and tipped the scales at a mere 16 stone – the lightest ever observed at the zoo.