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Endangered baby elephant born in Israel

 

Neela Debnath
Monday 05 August 2013 12:09 BST
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An endangered Asian elephant has given birth to her first calf at a safari park in Ramat Gan, Israel.

Seven-year-old La Belle gave birth to the healthy baby girl on Friday, who weighed in around 80kg (175lb). The newborn calf is yet to be named and has been constantly surrounded by her mother and grandmother La Petite.

The calf has been nursing from her grandmother rather than mother which is proving to be a source of concern for staff at the safari park. However, they are monitoring the situation carefully and may isolate La Petite if necessary.

The baby's 35-year-old grandmother is also pregnant and it is hoped that once she gives birth, she will be less involved with the newborn and focus more on her own baby.

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