22/01/10
Melbourne Zoo's first Asian Elephant calf remains in the elephant barn with her mother Dokkoon.  The birth was difficult and exhausting for Dokkoon who has spent the first week since her calf was born recovering.  The calf is alert, active and playful, however, this is still a critical period for the newborn calf.  Both mum and baby are still being monitored round the clock by Zoo staff.

Last night Dokkoon laid down four times and slept off and on. This is by far the most rest she has had since the birth.  The calf was able to nurse while Dokkoon was lying down. Later on Dokkoon stood over the sleeping baby for about five hours.   .

It is likely to be a number of days before both Dokkoon and her calf are ready to be on public viewing. Please check this website for the announcement of when mother and baby will be on view.

The calf is yet to be named. Staff will wait until they have a good idea of the calf's personality before short - listing some Thai names that suit her. The public will have the chance to vote on the preferred name of the baby elephant via this website. The public naming process is not expected to take place  for  a few weeks. The public is requested not to submit any names and check this website for details of when the naming competition begins.