Possible Relocation of Bronx Zoo Elephant

There are discussions about the last elephants at the Bronx Zoo potentially moving to a wildlife sanctuary in Tennessee, as reported recently.

The zoo is weighing the option of relocating Patti, a 57-year-old Asian elephant, following the recent euthanasia of another elephant, Happy, who was 55 and had been in hospice care. This transition comes at a sensitive time for the zoo.

Officials from the Wildlife Conservation Society, which manages the Bronx Zoo, visited a sanctuary in Tennessee to assess its suitability for Patti. The facility spans 3,000 acres and currently accommodates 12 elephants. The elephant care team took a tour and interacted with the staff there.

Bronx Zoo Director Craig Piper emphasized the importance of making the right choice, stating, “We want to be confident that the risks don’t outweigh the potential benefits.” Ensuring Patti’s well-being remains a priority, he noted.

Happy’s condition worsened before her death, with signs of declining health that included kidney and liver issues, prompting her euthanasia. She was popularly known for playfully hiding food in her ears.

Additionally, Happy was involved in a notable lawsuit brought by animal rights activists in 2018, who argued for her recognition as a “human” due to her intelligence. This case, however, was dismissed by the New York State Supreme Court, although the advocacy for her welfare continued until the end of her life.

Typically, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums mandates that zoos house at least three female elephants, but there are exceptions for those with a single elephant. Some institutions, like the Los Angeles Zoo and Oakland Zoo, have already ceased exhibiting elephants.

The Nonhuman Rights Project is actively urging that Patti be relocated to a sanctuary in Tennessee. Executive director Christopher Berry highlighted this call for action in a recent statement.

Despite this advocacy, zoo officials maintain that external opinions will not influence their decision regarding Patti’s future. There are concerns about the logistics of transporting her, how well she might adjust to a new environment, and her ability to bond with other elephants.

“It’s still being considered, but we’re approaching the situation with caution,” Piper remarked. “If we move forward, it will require extensive planning.” The Bronx Zoo has yet to provide further comments on this matter.