This Baby Elephant’s Bubble Bath Is The Cutest Thing You’ll See Today

April 14, 2026

After nearly two years of anticipation, a tiny new life is already making a big splash and giving people around the world a reason to smile.

At Smithsonian’s National Zoo, a baby Asian elephant named Linh Mai is capturing hearts ahead of her public debut on April 22. In an adorable new video shared with TODAY, the playful calf can be seen enjoying a bubble bath, one of many milestones in her first few months of life.

Linh Mai / Smithsonian / nationalzoo.si.edu

Linh Mai was born on February 2 to her mother, Nhi Linh, marking a historic moment for the zoo. She is the first elephant calf born there in nearly 25 years, making her arrival especially meaningful for both the animal care team and conservation efforts.

And her birth carries even greater significance beyond the zoo. With fewer than 50,000 Asian elephants remaining in the wild, each new calf represents hope for the future of the species—and a reminder of how important conservation efforts truly are.

As Linh Mai continues to grow, the team caring for her is already seeing her personality come to life.

“This past week on April 2, our Asian elephant calf Linh Mai turned two months old. It’s a major milestone for her and for our team, who have been caring for her 24/7 and ensuring she has everything she needs to thrive,” the zoo shared.

They added, “One of the most rewarding aspects of caring for elephants is getting to know their personalities. While Linh Mai is still young, parts of her personality are beginning to shine through. I can say with confidence that she is rambunctious, sassy and playful.”

With her big personality and even bigger significance, Linh Mai is already making a lasting impression, and her journey is just getting started.

Be sure to watch the adorable bubble bath moment below.