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Brookfield Zoo Chicago Welcomes First Dolphin Calf Since 2014

The birth contributes vital data to the zoo’s decades-long conservation programs, triggering a temporary habitat closure for close monitoring.

Bottlenose dolphins Allie and Tapeko are joined by the newly born calf at the Brookfield Zoo Chicago on June 7, 2025. (Brookfield Zoo Chicago)
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Credit: Brookfield Zoo Chicago

Overview

  • Allie, a 38-year-old bottlenose dolphin, gave birth at 12:22 a.m. on June 7 after more than an hour of labor with veteran mother Tapeko nearby to assist.
  • Veterinarians estimate the calf weighs 33–37 pounds and measures 115–120 centimeters, noting healthy breathing and its ability to slip-stream behind its mother.
  • The Seven Seas dolphin habitat will remain closed as staff observe bonding, nursing efficiency and developmental milestones through the critical first 30 days.
  • Zoo officials say data gathered from this birth will bolster their long-running wild dolphin research programs and support wider marine conservation efforts.
  • Researchers will perform a paternity test in the coming months and plan to announce a name for the new calf later this summer.