TOLEDO, Ohio — A winner has been chosen.
The Toledo Zoo announced the name for the newest addition to its herd. After receiving "several thousands of votes," a press release from the Zoo said the African elephant calf is named Kirk.
According to the Zoo, Kirk was born on February 17 to mother Renee and is the result of a successful artificial insemination (AI) process.
The announcement of the calf's birth was originally posted March 1 on the Zoo's social media pages.
Jen Brassil, director of PR and communications events at the Toledo Zoo, expressed her excitement for the elephant herd in a press release.
“The arrival of Kirk has brought immense joy to our Zoo and he’s sure to charm all that visit him,” said Brassil.
Kirk will make his public debut on Saturday, March 16 with a special event in the Tembo Trail exhibit.
Beginning March 16, the calf's exhibit will be open to the public Monday – Friday from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Viewing on Saturday and Sunday will be held from 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The Zoo will limit viewing to 20 guests at a time, and visitors will be guided by Zoo staff through the indoor exhibit. Noise levels must be kept to a minimum, the Zoo said, and no flash photography will be permitted.
For more information about Kirk, Renee, and the rest of the elephant herd, click here.
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