Houston Zoo welcomes new bull elephant with ‘big personality’

The Houston Zoo’s herd of Asian elephants gained 9,500 pounds following the arrival of Chuck the bull elephant.

Chuck was moved following a recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AAZ) Asian Elephant Species Survival Plan (NOT), a program that aims to ensure a genetically diverse and “biologically healthy” population, the zoo said.

Chuck will live with a multi-generational herd including Thailand (58), Tucker (19) and Nelson (4), and he will also be able to meet the females next door.

According to the Houston Zoo, Chuck’s big frame comes with a big personality.

“He is known to be a social butterfly who really enjoys being around other elephants. He occasionally receives a case of FOMO, when he thinks other elephants are leaving without him and starts vocalizing and kicking. Chuck is very energetic, very intelligent and a loving elephant,” he said. Credit: Kevin Kendrick/Houston Zoo via Storyful