Washington, D.C. (Fox News) — A baby Asian elephant was born at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, marking the zoo’s first elephant birth in nearly 25 years.

## Rare Elephant Birth
The 308-pound calf arrived at 1:15 a.m., with the mother, Nhi Linh, bonding with her under the care of zookeepers and veterinarians.

## Conservation Milestone
With fewer than 50,000 Asian elephants remaining in the wild, each birth is crucial for species conservation efforts.

## Planned Breeding Program
The calf’s birth was part of a carefully planned breeding recommendation through a national program to maintain healthy animal populations in zoos.

## Naming Contest
The public can participate in naming the calf through a voting process, with proceeds supporting Asian elephant care and conservation efforts.

## Public Debut
Visitors are encouraged to check for updates on when the calf will make its public debut at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo.