Fort Worthians have a new local celebrity, and she’s already stealing hearts and headlines. When the Fort Worth Report broke the news that the zoo’s Asian elephant, Bluebonnet, had given birth, the city practically came to a standstill. At about 250 pounds, this little Texan is already making a big impression.
Born on August 18, the female calf is one of six Asian elephants at the Fort Worth Zoo. Her mother, 26-year-old Bluebonnet, made history in 1998 as the first Asian elephant born at the facility, and her father, Romeo, now proudly adds “dad” to his title. According to the zoo, Bluebonnet’s newest baby is healthy, curious, and rarely leaves her mom’s side as she learns the ropes of elephant life.
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The Fort Worth Report noted that the zoo’s naming contest featured three Texas-inspired options: Yellow Rose, Black-Eyed Susan, and Lady Bird. After more than 18,000 votes, Lady Bird—nicknamed Birdie—came out on top. Her name pays tribute to Lady Bird Johnson, the former First Lady and Texas native, who is celebrated for her lifelong love of nature and wildflowers.
Zoo staff say Birdie is already full of personality. “She’s spunky, confident, and curious, often mimicking the adults’ trunk movements as she learns from them,” one keeper told the publication. Guests can visit Birdie and her family in the zoo’s Elephant Springs habitat daily from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“She’s Spunky, Confident and Curious, Often Mimicking the Adults”
Forth Worth Zoo
Asian elephants are endangered, and each birth offers new hope for the species. The Fort Worth Zoo participates in global conservation programs that help protect elephants both at home and abroad, making Birdie’s arrival more than just adorable—it’s meaningful.
Fort Worthians (which I love by the way) can now see Birdie in person, and honestly, who wouldn’t want to meet a baby elephant named after one of Texas’ most beloved icons? Whether you come for the history or the heart-melting trunk twirls, Birdie’s story is already shaping up to be a Fort Worth favorite—and the start of a legacy Texans won’t stop talking about anytime soon.
Related: Elephant Who Keeps Snatching Food Is So Precious
This story was originally reported by PetHelpful on Nov 2, 2025, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add PetHelpful as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Fort Worth Zoo, Asian elephant, Fort Worth Report, Bluebonnet, Fort Worth, Fort Worthians, Forth Worth Zoo
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