A New Era for Elephants
Sound the trumpets! In February 2026, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute and its beloved Asian elephants joyfully welcomed a new addition to the herd: Linh Mai, a 308-pound female calf.
Though she faced early challenges that require round-the-clock care for the first year of her life, Linh Mai’s arrival represents decades of groundbreaking progress in elephant biology, behavior, reproduction, nutrition and welfare.
On exhibit since 1891, and intensively studied over the last 50 years, our Asian elephant research underpins virtually everything known about the species today. This knowledge is critical for conserving the species: from combating disease in young elephants to helping wild herds reclaim a future in the forests of Southeast Asia, where populations have been declining for decades.
Linh Mai’s presence opens a new gateway of opportunity for millions of people to connect with and support Asian elephant conservation. We invite you to support the science, research and care that make it possible for more of these gentle giants to come into the world and to thrive—for generations to come.
Bridging Continents
While the National Zoo’s beloved park in Washington, D.C. is home to a thriving multi-generational herd, NZCBI also supports wild elephant conservation throughout Southeast Asia. Our zoo-based research informs care at zoos nationwide and strengthens wild conservation efforts.
Your gifts can make an elephant-sized impact in growing this powerful legacy at home and around the globe.
Generational Impact
Gifts of $25,000 or more receive prominent recognition at the Elephant Community Center at the National Zoo—an iconic destination welcoming millions of visitors each year to experience and celebrate Asian elephants.
Recognition Benefits
Your gift will be recognized for period of 10 years, with flexible pledge options over one to five years.
$200,000+
Opportunities for high-visibility recognition begin at $200,000, including placement in public spaces, naming the Elephant Cam, event sponsorships, and additional customized opportunities.
$100,000+
Donors contributing $100,000 or more will be recognized on the major donor wall with the name of their choosing.
$25,000+
Gifts at the $25,000 and $50,000 levels will be acknowledged with an engraved plaque at the entrance to the exhibit.
Meet the Herd
Asian elephants are highly social, forming complex bonds. Our research on these dynamics has helped us foster a close-knit herd.
Spike
Male, Born: 1981, Zoo Miami
Arrive at NZCBI: 2019
Despite weighing 13,000 pounds, Spike is a calm and laid-back gentleman.
Bozie
Female, Born: 1975, Sri Lanka
Arrive at NZCBI: 2013
Highly vocal, but also the herd's peacekeeper.
Swarna
Female, Born: 1975, Sri Lanka
Arrived at NZCBI: 2014
Swarna stepped in as doting "auntie” to Linh Mai after early bonding challenges.
Maharani ("Rani")
Female, Born: 1990, Calgary Zoo
Arrived at NZCBI: 2014
Tall and intelligent, this "princess" loves to solve puzzles.
Trong Nhi
Female, Born: 2003, Rotterdam Zoo
Arrived at NZCBI: 2022
Nhi Linh's mom is known for her stubborn and protective streak.
Nhi Linh
Female, Born: 2013, Rotterdam Zoo
Arrived at NZCBI: 2022
Playful and inquisitive, Nhi Linh loves exploring new enrichment items.
Linh Mai
Born: 2026, NZCBI
Birth Weight: 308lbs
Selected in a public vote, Linh Mai’s name evokes the apricot blossoms of the Lunar New Year. A particularly vocal calf, she is already making her presence known.
“Our elephants are here to answer big questions that help their species — there’s a lot to do to prepare them for what’s coming...”
Tony Barthel
Director of Animal Care, NZCBI
Past, Present and Future
Join us in a campaign to shape the future of elephant conservation.
Learn how your gifts to NZCBI can support elephant care and conservation at home and internationally.
Movement Ecology + Rewilding
Once essential to Southeast Asia’s logging industry, nearly 15,000 Asian elephants now face uncertain futures amid habitat loss and human conflict. Building on our pioneering GPS research, NZCBI is working with Thai and Laotian partners to develop reintroduction strategies and expand scientific capacity to ensure these elephants can thrive once more.
Genetics + Health
National Zoo scientists pioneered elephant DNA collection and mapped the Asian elephant genome, transforming global understanding of health, behavior and interventions for deadly diseases like elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV). We’re building on this foundation through a new DNA lab in Laos and research partnerships in Thailand, advancing science that safeguards elephants in human care and strengthens conservation for wild populations.
Nutrition + Wellness
NZCBI’s pioneering research in animal nutrition, behavior and reproduction is advancing elephant health and welfare worldwide. The Zoo’s thriving herd, cared for by expert teams, are helping to transform their daily care into discoveries that ensure a healthier future for elephants everywhere.
Facilities + Technology
The National Zoo’s Elephant Trails exhibit welcomes millions of visitors each year, both in person and online. Expansions to the elephants’ habitat and enhancements of our live webcams will amplify the care and study of our growing herd, and inspire people worldwide to take action to protect this remarkable species.
Celebrating Elephants, Inspiring Action
People protect what they love — and love begins with understanding. Through events like World Elephant Day and our yearlong celebration of this species at the National Zoo, millions of people can learn how simple, everyday actions ensure elephants’ survival for generations to come.
Help Secure a Future for Asian Elephants
Take Part in Writing the Next Chapter of Their Incredible Story
Nearly one-third of our annual operating budget supporting animal care, science and education comes from visitors, members and the contributions of generous donors like you. Join us as we continue building a bright and healthy future for Asian elephants here and around the world by connecting with a member of our Advancement team to learn about the specific opportunities to support the campaign.
Thank you for your leadership in supporting our interwoven work with elephants, their care, and the research to understand and protect them in the wild.
For more information, contact:
NZCBI Office of Advancement
NZP-Advancement@si.edu | 202-633-0703