Phoebe's health
was monitored throughout her pregnancy including an exercise regimen and regular
ultrasounds and blood draws. On Wednesday her progesterone levels dropped
significantly indicating the onset of the birthing process. Phoebe and her calf
will continue to be observed around the clock for the next few weeks.

To
allow Phoebe and her new baby time to form a strong bond, Zoo visitors are
currently unable to see them. The Zoo will announce viewing information when it
becomes available.

This is 21-year-old Phoebe's third offspring and her
second with sire Coco, 38 years of age. Phoebe and Coco made Columbus Zoo
history on April 16, 2004 with the arrival of Bodhi (BO-dee), the Zoo's first
successful elephant birth. Thirty-five-year-old Connie completes the Columbus
Zoo elephant herd.

"I commend the dedicated staff and volunteers who
love and care for these animals every day, and who have devoted their time and
expertise to make this joyful event possible" said Jeff Swanagan, the Columbus
Zoo's Executive Director. "We look forward to watching him grow and since baby
elephants develop fast – Bodhi gained 2 1/2 pounds a day – people will want to
visit him often."

An endangered species, Asian elephants are represented
by an estimated 38,000 to 51,000 individuals living in fragmented populations in
the wild. Agriculture, deforestation and conflict with humans pose a constant
threat to wild Asian Elephants.

"We have the opportunity every day to
inspire people to care about wildlife and take an active role in conservation.
An encounter with a living being, especially one as a magnificent as an
elephant, offers a vital link to conservation," stated Swanagan.