Miracle Birth: Rare Elephant Twins Thriving

June 14, 2024

Today's good news story comes from Ayutthaya, Thailand.

In a remarkable event in central Thailand, a 36-year-old Asian elephant named Chamchuri has given birth to rare twins, an occurrence that caretakers have called miraculous.

Elephantstay / Facebook

The unexpected births took place at the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Kraal.

Initially, Chamchuri delivered a male calf last Friday, and the staff believed the delivery was complete. However, while tending to the first calf, they heard a loud thud and discovered Chamchuri had given birth to a second calf, a female.

Elephantstay / Facebook

"Once we pulled the second baby elephant out, away from the mother, the baby stood up.

We were all cheering because it’s a miracle," veterinarian Lardthongtare Meepan told the BBC.

Elephantstay / Facebook

The sudden second birth caused Chamchuri to panic, and caretakers had to intervene to prevent her from accidentally stepping on the newborn female.

In the ensuing chaos, one caretaker was injured.

"I was so happy, I couldn't feel the pain," he told the BBC.

Elephantstay / Facebook

The female calf, being slightly smaller than usual, requires a stool to nurse with her mother.

According to Elephant Stay, the twins require feeding every two hours since they are not yet able to nurse independently. Fortunately, there are no issues with their mother's milk supply.

"The twins are getting all the love and expert care," the organization said.