So far, the calf is progressing rapidly since her birth on November 3. "She's much stronger and more stable on her feet. In fact, she started running yesterday in short spurts," adds Maluy. The keepers are exposing the calf to new stimuli such as noise, daily equipment used by the keepers, different voices and, a huge factor in her life, zoo visitors.

Born at 235 pounds, the calf has dropped to 232 pounds, which is typical of a newborn. According to zoo Senior Veterinarian Dr. Janis Joslin, "A newborn elephant can lose 10% of its body weight due to dehydration from no longer being in its mother's womb." She should gain approximately 2 to 3 pounds a day after the first week.

So far, the other members of the elephant herd, all female, have only being able to see and touch Chai's baby with their trunks while they remain in their own rooms. The African elephant, Watoto, has shown the most interest while Bamboo and Sri (pronounced "see"), both Asian elephants, poke their trunks out to touch, but pull back at any movement by the calf. "Our Asian elephants are curious about her, but a bit intimidated," says Maluy. "We'd like to be assured that all three are either positive or indifferent to her presence before we proceed with introductions," explains Maluy.

The public will get their first glimpse of Chai and her baby on Monday, November 6. Limited viewing will be offered at the elephant barn from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This viewing schedule will remain as long as mother and calf remain comfortable and their bonding continues to flourish. For periodic updates and viewing hours, log on to the zoo's Web site at www.zoo.org or call the zoo's general line at 206.684.4800.

Visit the Baby Page to keep track of her progress!