At Sedgwick County Zoo, history didn’t just happen. It stomped in.

The Zoo welcomed not one, not two, but four African elephant calves in a single year, a first for any accredited zoo in the United States. And now in 2026, the celebration continues: all four calves are turning one, with the first two already marking their big milestone birthdays.

Yes, Wichita is officially in its elephant era.

A baby elephant walks through his outdoor enclosure at the Sedgwick County Zoo

A first for Kansas (a really cute one)

It all started in April 2025, when Sedgwick County Zoo made state history with back-to-back births.

  • Bomani arrived April 10 to mom Talia
  • Kijani followed just four days later on April 14 to mom Xolani

If that feels like a lot of excitement for one week… you’re right.

Then the herd kept growing:

  • Asali was born June 3 to Arusi, with her name reveal making a national splash live on the TODAY Show
  • Dakari, the fourth and final calf, arrived August 22 to first-time mom Zuberi

Fast forward to now, and these once-wobbly calves are officially toddlers. It’s not just adorable. It’s a major conservation win.

Behind the scenes, the Zoo’s elephant care team has been all in, providing round-the-clock support and following the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan to help protect and sustain African elephant populations in North America.

A baby elephant stands next to his mother outside at the Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita.

Why it's worth the trip

Four calves. One herd. All hitting their first birthdays.

That’s not something you casually come across. It’s the kind of moment you’d expect to see narrated by David Attenborough. But here, it’s just a road trip away.

As the calves grow more confident, you’ll spot them exploring their habitat, sticking close to their moms and occasionally stealing the spotlight (and hearts). Timing varies, so keep an eye on the Zoo’s Facebook page for the latest updates before you visit.

What makes the zoo’s elephant exhibit so special?

This isn’t your average zoo stop. It’s one of the most impressive elephant habitats in the country. In fact, the Sedgwick County Zoo recently landed at No. 10 for Best Zoo in USA Today's 10Best awards, and its Reed Family Elephants of the Zambezi River Valley exhibit earned the No. 7 in Best Zoo Exhibit. 

  • One of the largest elephant habitats in the world (and the fifth largest in the U.S.)
  • A 555,000-gallon water feature where the herd can swim, splash and cool off
  • A boat tour through the canal

In the summer, that boat ride becomes a front-row seat to elephant playtime. Think: sunshine, splashing and a moment that feels equal parts safari and Midwest magic.

A baby elephant stands under his mom outside at the Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita, Kansas.

Don’t miss it

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just need a really good reason to hit the road, this is it.

Come celebrate four first birthdays. See something you won’t find anywhere else. And experience a side of Wichita that’s equal parts heartwarming, surprising and just plain fun.

For even more inspiration on what to see and do when you visit Wichita, check out our Visitors Guide.