Today we started doing daily hormone tests with Thong Dee to monitor a particular hormone which will help us predict when she's getting close to giving birth. Taronga's Elephant Manager Gary and the team assess Thong Dee every day and she gets plenty of treats to reward her cooperation. Gary and the other elephant keepers have a very close relationship with the eles which allows us to be part of their family. As a welcomed part of the elephant family, Gary will be able to assist with the birth.

Elephant Keeper Kat Theodore-and Thong Dee to her right