Posted June 25, 2014
Reid Park Zoo is throwing an elephant-sized baby shower for Semba, a
pregnant African elephant, June 29 8-10am. Although Semba’s calf is
not expected for a few more weeks, any pregnancy lasting 22 months
deserves a party! This is the first elephant pregnancy at Reid Park Zoo
so staff is particularly excited about sharing this special time with
the community.
Education staff will be on hand with crafts, activities, shower games,
and giant card for guests to sign to welcome baby when he (or she!)
arrives. Keepers will demonstrate and share information about Semba’s
pregnancy care routine including stretching, foot care, and body
conditioning. The Zoo will offer free tours of the Elephant Care Center
at 9:30am. Staff will even have cupcakes for the first 100 guests as
well as a special healthy “cake” for the whole elephant herd to
enjoy, along with a few food “gifts” for them to open.
For guests interested in helping prepare for the calf’s arrival by
donating or bringing a “shower” gift, keepers have carefully
selected items that will most helpful. Supporters can check the Zoo’s
website at
(https://reidparkzoo.org/event/elephant-baby-shower/)
for instructions on how to make a contribution for a specific gift
through the Reid Park Zoological Society.