So many eyes and ears have been turned to the Oregon Zoo this week, waiting for developments after historic birth of Rose-Tu’s calf on Saturday. Yesterday, the Oregon Zoo keepers were finally able to allow Rose-Tu and her infant calf to wander freely together after a forced separation period (due to some initial post labor aggression). The new calf shows all sign of being healthy and happy, and Rose-Tu is beginning to assume the role of mother.

Rose-Tu, born in 1994, was last elephant born at the Oregon Zoo. She is an extremely popular elephant both with the zookeepers keepers and with the other elephants. She has a strong personality, appearing to constantly tease her herd mates. Rose-Tu is the second smallest elephant in the herd, weighing about 7,600 pounds. The Oregon Zoo has a renowned breeding program for endangered Asian elephants. More than 25 elephants have been born there, beginning with the “world famous” Packy in 1962.