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7h ago

L.A. Zoo Elephants Billy and Tina Complete Controversial Move to Tulsa Zoo

The 22-hour overnight relocation follows legal challenges, celebrity advocacy for sanctuary retirement, and ongoing debates over elephant care standards.

Image
FILE - Billy, a male Asian elephant, roams in his habitat at the Elephants of Asia exhibit at the Los Angeles Zoo on Tuesday, April 18, 2017. (AP Photo/Richard Vogel, File)
FILE - Billy, a male Asian elephant, roams in his habitat at the Elephants of Asia exhibit at the Los Angeles Zoo on Tuesday, April 18, 2017. (AP Photo/Richard Vogel, File)

Overview

  • Billy, 40, and Tina, 59, arrived safely at the Tulsa Zoo's Elephant Experience and Preserve after a secretive overnight transfer by truck on May 21, confirmed by the Los Angeles Zoo.
  • The relocation was prompted by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' requirement for a minimum of three elephants per herd, which the L.A. Zoo no longer met after two elephant deaths in 2023 and 2024.
  • Animal advocates and celebrities, including Cher and Alicia Silverstone, opposed the move, urging sanctuary retirement instead of another zoo enclosure, citing animal welfare concerns.
  • City Councilmember Bob Blumenfield filed a motion to pause the relocation pending sanctuary review, but the transfer proceeded despite his efforts and ongoing legal challenges.
  • The L.A. Zoo has paused its elephant program and plans to reimagine the former enclosure for other species, while advocacy groups continue to push for sanctuary options for the elephants.