Oregon Zoo Welcomes Baby Elephant; Minnesota Zoo Launches ‘Name a Bug’ Campaign

Zoos across the United States continually engage the public with new animal arrivals and innovative programs that highlight conservation efforts and community involvement. Recently, the Oregon Zoo baby elephant birth has captured the hearts of many, while the Minnesota Zoo name a bug creative fundraising initiatives continue to attract attention. These events not only captivate animal enthusiasts nationwide but also raise awareness about wildlife protection and support for zoo programs.

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Oregon Zoo’s New Baby Elephant

On February 1, 2025, the Oregon Zoo baby elephant in Portland celebrated the birth of a new member to its elephant family. Rose-Tu, a 30-year-old Asian elephant, gave birth after a 20-month pregnancy. The calf, estimated to weigh around 200 pounds, appears to be a healthy female. The zoo staff is allowing Rose-Tu and her baby time to bond before conducting a full health check to confirm the calf’s weight and sex. Steve Lefave, who oversees the zoo’s elephant program, described the birth as one of the smoothest he has ever seen, noting that the calf was standing and walking within 15 minutes of birth. This is Rose-Tu’s third calf; her firstborn, Samudra, also resides at the zoo, while her second calf, Lily, passed away in 2018 due to a virus. The zoo has not yet announced when the public will be able to visit the new arrival, as they prioritize the well-being and comfort of both mother and calf.

Minnesota Zoo Name A Bug Valentine’s Day Initiative

In a creative twist for Valentine’s Day, the Minnesota Zoo is offering the public an opportunity to name a bug in honor of someone special—or perhaps someone who “bugs” them. For a $15 donation made before midnight on February 14, participants can name a bug, which will then be fed to one of the zoo’s animals as part of their balanced diet. This initiative supports the Minnesota Zoo Foundation and provides nourishment for animals such as golden lion tamarins, chameleons, opossums, and turtles. The zoo emphasizes that this program is a memorable way to show appreciation or playfully acknowledge someone in one’s life.

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Conclusion

These recent events at the Oregon Zoo baby elephant and the Minnesota Zoo highlight the dynamic and engaging efforts of U.S. zoos to connect with the public and support wildlife conservation. The birth of a new elephant calf at the Oregon Zoo underscores the success of their breeding programs and commitment to species preservation. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Zoo’s inventive ‘Name a Bug’ campaign offers a unique way for individuals to contribute to animal care while adding a personal touch to their Valentine’s Day celebrations. Such initiatives not only enhance visitor engagement but also play a crucial role in supporting the ongoing missions of these institutions.

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