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ASHA, Budapest Zoo's new baby elephant is ready to meet public March 1, 2013

ASHA, born on 14th February, Valentine's Day caused initial concern to zoo fans, animal care staff and veterinarians due to feeding difficulties. Luckily things have improved and the baby elephant can make its public debut. Asha's well being is top priority for the zoo so there will be some precautions for visitors. The baby trunker was given the name Asha, which means Hope in Sanskrit language.

ASHA, born on 14th February, Valentine's Day caused initial concern to zoo fans, animal care staff and veterinarians due to feeding difficulties. The little Asian elephant calf could not suckle from its mum's breasts at first, so the zoo staff tried hard to help the newborn trunker find the nipples. Their efforts were rewarded on the second day. Breastfeeding is vital for Asian baby elephants as they have very little chance for survival with bottle feeding. For this reason mother and calf needed quiet time. Luckily things have improved since then and the baby elephant can make its public debut. Asha's well being is top priority for the zoo so there will be some precautions for visitors. The baby trunker was given the name Asha, which means Hope in Sanskrit language.

If the weather allows, the elephants will take a short walk in the outer exhibit area about midday. Be the lucky one to spot them there. However, we cannot guarantee public appearance every day, the baby elephant's health being the zoo's top priority. Our vets and care staff may keep the calf inside, or the elephants decide to stay indoors.

ASHA can also be visited in the viewing gallery from 25th Feb.

Due to vast public interest and because of the animals' health we had to introduce a few rules:

  • According to our plans the calf can be viewed daily from 1.00 p.m. to 3.00 p.m. Due to the large public demand visitors can only stay in the gallery for a few minutes so that others can have their turn.
  • Visitors have to queue outside the Elephant House and will be admitted in small groups with staff escort.


Visitor rules:

It is strictly forbidden to use flash, make noise, knock or bang on the separating panel, feed the animals or harm them in any other way. We appreciate your cooperation.

Thank you for your understanding in case the visits are suspended. Our vets or animal carers may temporarily close the Elephant House any time if the elephants need peace and quiet. We cannot guarantee the visit due to unforeseen circumstances.

Please come back again if you miss out on the elephant calf on your first visit. As time goes by, Asha will grow bigger and stronger and will probably spend more and more time outside in the exhibit area.