A tiny new resident is making big waves at the Brookfield Zoo—the zoo recently welcomed its first bottlenose dolphin calf in a decade.
“A momentous occasion”
Thirty-eight-year-old bottlenose dolphin Allie gave birth on Saturday, June 7, according to a statement from the zoo. Veterinary staff estimate the calf weighs between 33 and 37 pounds and measures 115 to 120 centimeters in length.
“This dolphin birth is a momentous occasion for Brookfield Zoo Chicago,” said Dr. Mike Adkesson, the zoo’s president and CEO, adding that staff are closely monitoring the health of both Allie and her calf.
“Every birth is a remarkable learning opportunity, and the scientific information we gain benefits marine conservation efforts. We are delighted to share this news with everyone who has followed Allie’s pregnancy journey.”
A year of milestones ahead
The calf’s first year will be a pivotal time for its long-term development, zoo staff say. Many dolphin calves born in the wild don’t survive their first year, making this a critical period for care and observation.
As such, Brookfield Zoo staff will work closely with the calf to support its health and growth in the coming weeks.
The Seven Seas habitat will remain temporarily closed for the next few months, giving Allie and her calf essential time to bond and acclimate to the rest of the zoo’s dolphin population.