An elephant transferred from Auckland Zoo to Australia as part of a breeding programme has suffered a devastating loss, after giving birth to a stillborn calf.
Anjalee was moved to Taronga Western Plains Zoo in 2022 to improve her chances of breeding, but despite intensive efforts by keepers during labour last week, the calf did not survive.
The zoo said Anjalee is being closely supported by her herd mates Thong Dee, Porntip and Kanlaya, who have remained by her side since the birth.
Zoo staff described the loss as heartbreaking, while noting the strong social bonds shown by the herd.
The death also highlights the fragility of conservation breeding efforts, with Asian elephants listed as endangered and only about 40,000 believed to remain in the wild.
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