One-year-old Yaad is perfecting a new art form: “elfie”.
The Rosamond Gifford Zoo in Syracuse, New York, shared two photos on Facebook on Dec. 8 of an Asian elephant that appears to be taking a selfie.
“Yaad took an elfie (elephant selfie),” the zoo captioned the adorable photos, which show Yaad staring at the camera with his trunk raised.
For sweet shots, Yaad had a little help. Zoo spokeswoman Rosamond Gifford told PEOPLE that “the photos were taken by Alinda Dygert” — a member of the animal care staff who works closely with Yaad — with the help of the elephant.
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These photos are Yaad’s latest newsworthy moment. The young elephant has been on the headlines since birth. He is one of Rosamond Gifford Zoo’s “Wonderful Eletwins.”
Yaad, a one-year-old Asian elephant poses for a photo at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo in Syracuse, New York.
Rosamond Gifford Zoo (Alinda Dygert)
In November 2022, Mali the elephant gave birth to Yaad and his twin brother Tukada at the New York Zoo. The zoo considers their arrival “historic” because twins make up only 1% of elephants born in the world.
“The birth of twin elephants is extremely rare and we are extremely proud to have Yaad and his brother Tukada here with us,” said Rosamond Gifford Zoo.
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A spokesperson for the facility adds that Yaad is “more adventurous and independent” than the twins. These qualities lead Yaad to “look for new things,” including photo opportunities.
The zoo’s animal care staff work to build strong relationships with the residents, allowing keepers to bond, provide the best possible care, and snap a great photo or two when the time comes.
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Yaad, a one-year-old Asian elephant poses for a photo at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo in Syracuse, New York.
Rosamond Gifford Zoo (Alinda Dygert)
When Yaad is not posing for the camera, he is enjoying himself with his brother and the six other elephants who live with them in their 6-hectare habitat.
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Those who wish to bring holiday cheer to Yaad and the other elephants at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo are encouraged to support efforts that contribute to elephant conservation.
“Supporting your local AZA facility and Elephant SAFE is a great way to help animals like Yaad. A donation to Friends of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo will also directly benefit the work being done here with Yaad, Tukada and all the animals in our care,” according to the zoo Rosamond Gifford.
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