Houston Zoo prepares for birth of two baby Asian elephants this spring

Tess & Tupelo Ultrasound (Jacklin Reyna/Houston Zoo)

HOUSTON – Two Asian Elephants are preparing for their upcoming birth of their calves this spring at the Houston Zoo.

The zoo made the announcement Wednesday during a Facebook Live, saying both elephant mothers are “advancing normally and on schedule” in their two-year pregnancy.

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Both mom-to-be elephants are mother and daughter, with 10-year-old Tupelo is up first ahead of her mother, 37-year-old Tess, zoo officials said. They will both give birth at the McNair Asian Elephant Habitat barn under veterinary supervision.

Good morning from the elephant yard with mother and daughter Asian elephants, Tess and Tupelo. We’re thrilled for both expecting moms. If you missed their BIG NEWS, don’t worry we’ve got you covered with all the deets. Get your questions ready!

Posted by Houston Zoo on Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Both elephant mothers are due to give birth in the spring and will undergo postnatal care and spend several days bonding behind the scenes.


About the Author

A graduate of the University of Houston-Downtown, Ana moved to H-Town from sunny southern California in 2015. In 2020, she joined the KPRC 2 digital team as an intern. Ana is a self-proclaimed coffee connoisseur, a catmom of 3, and an aquarium enthusiast. In her spare time, she's an avid video gamer and loves to travel.

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