Taronga Western Plains Zoo, NSW

It’s a boy! And not just a boy, but the first Asian elephant calf born in Dubbo, giving Taronga vets the exiting new task of looking after the development of this precious 180 kilograms of joy. Born in November 2016 to experienced mother Thing Dee, Sabai is her second delivery following Luck Chai, the first calf born in Australia in 2009. The new arrival came on the 10th anniversary of this elephant herd arriving to Australia in 2006 from Thailand. A strong lad, Sabai was on his feet 30 minutes after the birth and began feeding within hours. Dubbo is also reeling with delight as four newborn lion cubs make their public debut, as well as three cheetah cubs, four ring-tailed lemurs and a Przewalski’s Horse foal.

Perth Zoo, WA

From koalas to monkeys, there are babies everywhere at Perth Zoo. Tarini the koala joey arrived in May 2016, the first to be born within the zoo since 2001. This successful birth is the result of a matchmaking system created as a conservation programme in order to protect endangered species. Both baby Tarini and champion mum Wanda have been spotted lazing and bonding around the trees of their recreated habitat.

The lemur matchmaking team is also happy to announce the birth of two beautiful ring-tailed lemur twins, bringing hope while also highlighting the plight of this endangered species. The first capuchin monkey born in the zoo since 2012 also came as a beautiful Christmas present for mum Lola and dad Elvis, who have been spotted around the trees, baby on back, nurturing and helping him grow.