Oregon Zoo's Successful Elephant Breeding Program

Number of births to date:

27

Reasons for Success

Facility: Our facility can safely house adult bull elephants, allowing them a full range of normal behavior and large enough to house normal social groups.

Staff: Our elephant staff is deeply involved in efforts to preserve and expand the gene pool for Asian elephants. They are currently working with zoos and circuses in the U.S. and with governments in Southeast Asia to enhance prospects for survival.

Asian Elephant Studbook

The Oregon Zoo maintains the Asian Elephant Studbook, a document necessary for establishing a national breeding program. The Oregon Zoo also plays and active role in the elephants' Species Survival Plan (SSP).

Thonglaw: A Word From Our Keepers

Thonglaw began our success story by siring 15 calves, beginning with Packy. He died in 1974 due to a chronic foot problem. Our elephant restraint chute was added after his death to help us better treat these conditions.