"This calf represents real hope for the future of Asian elephants. The first step to saving any species is getting people to care. As animal ambassadors, elephant calves are as charming and charismatic as they come. I can't wait for visitors to experience the joy of watching our multigenerational herd socialize, play and learn," Smithsonian National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute Director Brandie Smith said.
Smithsonian National Zoo expecting birth of Asian elephant calf
→
"Bao Li and Qing Bao have already won the hearts of our staff and volunteers, and we are excited to welcome panda fans back to the Zoo — the only place in the nation where you can see giant pandas for free," National Zoo Director Brandie Smith said in a press release earlier this month.
National Zoo's new pandas to make their public debut Friday
→