The Phoenix Zoo has come under intense scrutiny after being ranked among the worst zoos in North America for elephant care¹. Indu, the zoo’s last elephant, faces an uncertain future as concerns about her welfare have grown over the years.

Indu, a 59-year-old Asian elephant, has been confined to the Phoenix Zoo since 1998. Her enclosure, which she shares intermittently with a rhinoceros, has been criticized for being too small and lacking the social interaction essential for her well-being¹. Animal advocates argue that such limited space and isolation contribute to physical and psychological distress, preventing Indu from living a fulfilling life.

Plans to Shut Down the Exhibit

In response to mounting criticism, the Phoenix Zoo has announced plans to shut down the elephant exhibit once Indu passes away². The decision aligns with a broader movement among zoos to reassess the viability of keeping highly intelligent and social animals like elephants in captivity. The zoo plans to convert the elephant enclosure to accommodate greater one-horned rhinoceroses, species that live solitarily, indicating a shift away from elephant exhibits².

Despite these assurances, many critics remain unconvinced. The exhibit size was doubled before the 2024 ranking, expanding to six acres, yet advocates argue this space is still insufficient for elephants, who require ample room to roam and socialize⁴. The solitary confinement has been linked to behaviors indicative of stress and declining health, underscoring the need for a more compassionate solution.

Experts Point To Inadequacies

Expert opinions highlight the inadequacies of zoo environments for elephants. Elephant biologist Mickey Pardo emphasizes that elephants cannot thrive in captivity and advocates for their relocation to sanctuaries where they can engage in natural behaviors and social interactions². The successful relocation of Osh, the last African elephant from the Oakland Zoo to a sanctuary in Tennessee, serves as a positive example of how such moves can significantly enhance an elephant’s quality of life⁶.

The Phoenix Zoo’s decision to phase out its elephant exhibit reflects a growing recognition of the limitations inherent in captive settings for highly social animals. By transitioning the space to accommodate rhinoceroses, the zoo is taking a step towards prioritizing animal welfare, though many believe more immediate action is necessary for Indu’s sake.

Call for Compassionate Action

Experts have praised the zoo’s decision but stres the importance of ensuring Indu’s well-being during her remaining years³. The call for Indu to experience companionship and freedom resonates with animal welfare advocates who seek to see elephants live their lives with the dignity they deserve.

Humanity and compassion must guide our actions toward Indu. Relocating her to a sanctuary would honor her dignity and provide her with the life she deserves. This move would not only benefit Indu but also set a precedent for the ethical treatment of all captive elephants, ensuring a better future for these intelligent and social animals.

Take Action Now! Sign the petition and join us in advocating for Indu’s freedom and well-being. Sign the petition to give Indu the peaceful and social life she deserves.

More on this issue:

1. Steve Goldstein, KJZZ (5 April 2022), "This group says the Phoenix Zoo should give up its last elephant."
2. Lauren Gilger, KJZZ (7 January 2025), "As many zoo elephants are sent to sanctuaries, Phoenix Zoo will end its exhibit after Indu dies."
3. In Defense of Animals (7 January 2025), "MEDIA RELEASE: Phoenix Zoo to Shut Elephant Exhibit After Placing #10 on Worst Zoos List."
4. AZ Family (7 January 2025), "Phoenix Zoo disputes claims of elephant’s poor welfare in exhibit."
5. Corina Vanek, Arizona Republic (7 January 2025), "Phoenix Zoo: '10th worst' ranking on list claiming poor elephant treatment has 'no merit’."
6. Oakland Zoo (21 October 2024), "Oakland Zoo's Last African Male Elephant, Osh, Moves to New Home at The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee."