Surprise at the Leipzig Zoo: a little earlier than expected, an elephant cub was born there on Sunday night. The zoo announced that the ten-year-old elephant cow Pantha had become a mother for the first time.

The birth was not expected until the fourth quarter due to the average gestation period of 22 months for elephants. The birth of the little bull took place in the presence of Pantha's experienced mother Kewa and sister Thuza, who is also expecting a cub. The father of the young bull is Voi Nam, who was also born in Leipzig.

"The first few hours that we have now been able to observe make us optimistic. The young animal stands between the adult animals, is protected and seems fit and alert. Kewa gives her daughters the security they need," said zoo director Jörg Junhold.