Every time an animal gives birth, especially when it's twins, two new
life-forms enter the world, it is a momentous occasion.
However, twin pregnancies are extremely uncommon for many species, making
them all the more remarkable when they do occur.
Because of this, one zoo is celebrating the birth of "miracle twin" Asian
elephant babies, which is quite unusual for the breed.
A pair of male elephant twins were born on October 24 to Asian elephants
Mali and Doc, according to a recent announcement from the Rosamond Gifford
Zoo in Syracuse, New York.
It's amazing since just 1% of elephant births worldwide result in twins,
and when they do, the kids are sometimes stillborn and occasionally the
mother doesn't even make it.
But happily, that wasn't the case here: the twins and their mother Mali are
both doing OK, and the zoo reports that there have been "no
complications."
The first-born calf, which weighed 220 pounds, was described in a news
statement as being "perfectly healthy" when it was delivered.
Ten hours later, the second baby came and was "noticeably weaker," but
owing to the on-site veterinarians, his condition has greatly improved. He
has a 237-pound weight.
Staff was allegedly "astonished" by the arrival of the second twin because
it was so unusual, but they were ready for anything and did their best to
keep the infants healthy.
Zoo Director Ted Fox stated, "I can't praise my staff enough for all
they've done these past several weeks to assure the care and safety of Mali
and her babies.
"It has been amazing to watch them work and see the high level of
professionalism, expertise, and focus under pressure."
More than 20,000 Asian elephants remain in the wild, making it an
endangered species that is in danger from illegal poaching and habitat
loss.
The birth of not just one, but two elephants will greatly increase the
likelihood of their survival in the future.
"This is a very momentous time for our community and the zoo. County
Executive Ryan J. McMahon stated, "I couldn't be prouder of our great animal
care team, the assistance of the veterinary staff, and their incredible
commitment to Mali and the twins.
"The crucial research being conducted right here at the zoo will
significantly benefit this magnificent endangered species on a global
scale."
What wonderful news. We're happy that these highly rare, threatened
elephant twins have arrived and are relieved that they're doing so
well.
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animals