The Saint Louis Zoo recently welcomed a male Asian elephant calf named Jet. Born on Saturday to Jade, a 17-year-old elephant, Jet is the first Asian elephant at the zoo to be born through artificial insemination. The birth is a key step in the zoo's efforts to conserve elephants.

Regina Mossotti, Vice President of Animal Care at the Saint Louis Zoo, discussed the importance of breeding and raising animals for their wellbeing. She stated, "Our incredible and experienced Animal Care team is providing exceptional around-the-clock care for Jade and her newborn calf." Jade, who was born and raised at the Zoo, continues a legacy that is an important part of the Zoo’s history, as stated by Saint Louis Zoo. 

The name Jet honors the calf's great-grandparents, Onyx and Pearl, continuing the Zoo's tradition of using gemstone names. According to a statement to FOX2now, Jet’s birth was managed by an experienced team specializing in elephant care, ensuring both he and his mother, Jade, received the necessary support.

Elephants have long pregnancies, typically lasting about 22 months, and their newborns weigh between 250 and 350 pounds. Baby Jet, born at the Saint Louis Zoo, is receiving care along with his mother. Jet is now part of an eight-member elephant family that includes Ellie, Maliha, Pearl, Priya, Sri, and Raja. In addition to his mother’s care, Jet’s conception was made possible through artificial insemination, with genetic material from his father, Jake, who lives at the Denver Zoo, as reported by KSDK.