Sabai (Thai for ‘happy’) turned one on Thursday, and keepers prepared a special ice-block ‘cake’ and some other treats to mark the occasion.

He was hesitant at first, but eventually Sabai tucked in.

Keeper Bobby-Jo Clow said the calf weighed 568 kilograms, and was gaining about 10 kilograms per week.

“He’s very playful and curious, and one of his favourite pastimes is chasing the Guinea Fowl and Apostlebirds on exhibit,” she said.

“He has a special bond with not only his mother, but also his aunty, Porntip. Sabai regularly runs back and forth between the two as he plays.

“The elephant herd here is very family orientated, and Porntip has always been very attentive and caring towards Sabai.”

The calf also has special relationship with big brother Luk Chai, who at just eight years of age already weighs about 2500 kilograms.

Despite the size difference, the pair could be seen on Thursday playing, eating and walking together. Luk Chai even tried teaching Sabai how to crush an ice-block.

Asian elephants are classified as endangered, with wild populations declining to fewer than 50,000 across 13 countries, mainly due to habitat loss.

Ms Clow said every Asian elephant calf born was a vital addition to the insurance population.

Sabai can be seen on exhibit with his mother, Thong Dee, and aunty, Porntip, who is pregnant and due to give birth in July next year.