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Kansas Welcomes a Once-in-a-Lifetime Elephant Baby Boom in Wichita
Something big is happening in Wichita, and it’s putting Kansas on the map in an unforgettable way. At the in Wichita – – history didn’t just happen. It arrived in a herd.
In 2025, the zoo welcomed four African elephant calves in a single year, a first for any accredited zoo in the United States. Now in 2026, those calves are turning one, marking a milestone worth celebrating across the Sunflower State.
We can officially say Wichita is in its elephant era.
Credit: Sedgwick County Zoo
A milestone moment for Kansas
The excitement began in April 2025 with back-to-back births. Bomani was born on April 10 to mom Talia. Kijani followed just four days later, on April 14, to mom Xolani.
Then the herd kept growing.
Asali arrived on June 3 to her mom, Arusi, with her name revealed on the national stage . Dakari, the fourth calf, was born on August 22 to first-time mom Zuberi.
Now, these once-wobbly calves are thriving toddlers, and their births represent more than just adorable moments. They’re part of a larger conservation effort led by the zoo’s dedicated animal care team, working in partnership with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan to help protect African elephants for future generations.
Credit: Sedgwick County Zoo
Why travelers are making the trip
Four calves. One herd. All are celebrating their first birthdays.
It’s a rare opportunity to see something truly special up close. Visitors can watch the calves explore their habitat, stay close to their mothers and show off their growing personalities. No two visits are exactly the same, which makes every trip feel like a new experience.
For the latest updates on when the herd is most active, it’s worth checking the before you go.
Credit: Darrin Hackney
An exhibit worth the spotlight
Sedgwick County Zoo is home to one of the most impressive elephant habitats in the country. The Reed Family Elephants of the Zambezi River Valley exhibit has earned national recognition, including a spot among .
The space offers:
- One of the largest elephant habitats in the world, and among the largest in the United States
- A 555,000-gallon water feature where elephants can swim and play
- A boat tour that takes visitors through the exhibit for a unique perspective
During warmer months, that boat ride becomes a front-row seat to elephant activity, with plenty of splashing, sunshine, and memorable moments along the way.
Family on the Boat Tour
Credit: Trevor Hawkin
Plan your visit
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or adding a stop to a Kansas road trip, Wichita offers a chance to experience something you won’t find anywhere else.
Come celebrate a one-of-a-kind milestone, see conservation in action and enjoy a side of Kansas that’s equal parts inspiring, surprising and fun.
Discover even more in Wichita – from local dining and arts to family-friendly attractions with .
Author
Visit Wichita
Wichita, the heart of the country, is centrally located in Kansas. The vibrant city exudes friendliness. From the locals you meet at the 50-plus museums and attractions to the 1,200-plus eateries, kindness greets you at every turn.
The Keeper of the Plains, a 44-foot sculpture, looms tall with outstretched hands and is symbolic of the community’s Midwest traditions. He was a gift to the citizens in 1974, and today he gives the community and those who visit it a sense of unity, belonging, and peace.
Visit Wichita, today. Learn more at or call 316-265-2800.
