Billy and Tina, the last two elephants at the Los Angeles Zoo, were relocated to the Tulsa Zoo in Oklahoma this week despite ongoing lawsuits seeking their transfer to an animal sanctuary for a more natural habitat. Animal advocates criticized the move, which occurred “under cover of darkness” early Tuesday to avoid protests, arguing that the Tulsa Zoo’s smaller enclosure is not suitable for aging elephants.
The Nonhuman Rights Project, represented by attorney Jake Davis, filed a petition for the elephants’ release to a sanctuary, emphasizing the need for large spaces and varied terrains for the animals’ well-being. The L.A. Zoo, however, asserted that the move to Tulsa, where they would be with other elephants, would provide necessary socialization for Billy, 40, and Tina, 59.
Although a recent lawsuit attempted to halt the transfer, a judge denied an emergency restraining order. The plight of the elephants has garnered attention from celebrities like Cher, who stated they deserve to live their remaining years in peace.
Additionally, Los Angeles City Councilmember Bob Blumenfield introduced a motion in April urging the zoo to explore sanctuary options. However, the zoo proceeded with the move before the council could act, attracting criticism for a lack of transparency.
The controversy fits into a broader discussion on the suitability of urban zoos for elephants, as many experts believe elephants require much more space than such facilities can provide. Some larger zoos have already discontinued their elephant programs, opting to send them to spacious sanctuaries, while others maintain breeding programs to support conservation efforts. The Tulsa Zoo claimed to have improved its elephant exhibits, dedicating 17 of its acres to elephants.
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