Elephant Calf Remains in gUARDED cONDITION
Encouraging trends, though still closely monitoring health
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Update November 12, 2021: Thank you to the Zoo community for continuing to support our elephant calf. Internal and external veterinary teams are closely monitoring her health 24 hours a day. She is showing signs of stabilizing as she continues on her long journey toward recovery.
Today the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium announced that the female African elephant calf born at the Pittsburgh Zoo’s International Conservation Center (ICC) in Somerset County this summer remains in guarded condition.
Born July 18, 2021 to new mother Sukuri, the calf continues to be active and bright between bouts of nursing with mom and resting. She has been receiving progressive care 24 hours a day to help overcome several ailments, and while her overall health condition remains at a pivotal stage, the Animal Care team remains vigilant and optimistic.
“She had a good week and mom is doing a fantastic job. We are encouraged by the current trends, however she remains in guarded condition as we continue to closely monitor her health and behavior,” says Dr. Joe Gaspard, Director of Animal Health, Science, and Conservation for the Zoo, “Elephant specialists from around the country are working closely to assist our team’s efforts as the Zoo is using every resource available to aid in the calf’s recovery.”
As a resident of our International Conservation Center, the calf is not viewable by the general public. Social media messages of support have been shared with our veterinary and caregiving teams, and the Zoo continues to appreciate the community’s well wishes as the team focuses on her well-being.
About the ICC
Located on approximately 1,000 acres in Somerset, PA, the International Conservation Center (ICC) is North America’s premier conservation, research, education, breeding, and training facility, specializing in the care and breeding of African elephants. The ICC is the only center of its kind with such a strong focus on this threatened species and enables the Pittsburgh Zoo to play a major leadership role in addressing the needs the African elephant population in North America.