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IN DEFENSE OF ANIMALS - In a move that has sparked public outcry, the Los Angeles Zoo has announced plans to transfer two elderly Asian elephants—Billy, 40, and Tina, 59—to the Elephant Preserve at the Tulsa Zoo. Animal welfare advocates say the decision ignores thousands of appeals to retire the elephants to a sanctuary where their autonomy and care would be prioritized.
The announcement comes as the LA Zoo earns the top spot—for the second year in a row and the ninth time overall—on In Defense of Animals’ annual list of the 10 Worst Zoos for Elephants. The group cites the zoo’s continued refusal to send Billy and Tina to sanctuary, despite their declining health.
Both elephants suffer from severe foot and joint disease, chronic arthritis, and display signs of zoochosis—psychological distress marked by repetitive behaviors such as swaying and pacing. These symptoms, experts warn, indicate long-term psychological trauma and potential brain damage.
“Thousands of people have joined us in calling for Billy and Tina’s freedom,” said Courtney Scott, Elephant Consultant for In Defense of Animals. “It’s disheartening that the zoo has failed to listen and honor them with the sanctuary retirement they deserve.”
Scott added that the organization hopes the plight of Billy and Tina will prompt more institutions to rethink the ethics of keeping elephants in captivity. Thirty-eight zoos—including six in California—have already shut down their elephant exhibits permanently.
Concerns have also been raised about the Tulsa Zoo, which was included on the 10 Worst Zoos list in 2022 for inadequate space, even after renovations. With Billy and Tina’s arrival, the Tulsa facility will house seven elephants—further intensifying concerns about overcrowding and proper care.
Since 2004, In Defense of Animals’ 10 Worst Zoos for Elephants list has drawn widespread media coverage and celebrity support. The list highlights the grim conditions elephants face in captivity and has become a key advocacy tool for pushing zoos toward reform.
To learn more, view photos, or support the campaign, visit: https://bit.ly/BillyTina
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