In Defense of Animals recently released its 2023 list of 10 Worst Zoos for Elephants. The Los Angeles Zoo made the top spot as the number one worst zoo, due to the decades of suffering experienced by its lone bull elephant, Billy. Join us on Sunday, January 28, 2024, along with co-hosts Elephant Guardians of Los Angeles and Los Angeles for Animals, to send the message that it is time to #FreeBilly from his 34 years of incarceration. 

Billy's latest medical records reveal a history of chronic foot infections, which can lead to fatal foot disease. He also exhibits extreme zoochotic swaying and bobbing stress behavior from his many years confined to a 1-acre yard with no trees, grass, and little opportunity for companionship. A sanctuary has offered to take Billy and give him the life he deserves on acres of lush grass dotted with trees and ponds. Please help us give Billy this chance to live like the wild, free bull elephant he was meant to be.

An LA City Council committee has approved a proposal to free Billy. It must now proceed to the full council for the final hearing. As we eagerly await this new hearing, we urge you to provide massive support to get Billy to freedom. 

This rally is a peaceful event. We encourage nonjudgmental conversations with zoo visitors to inform them about Billy's sad plight and need for release to the sanctuary. Bring your family and friends and make this a rally to remember!

What: Rally to Free Billy from #1 Worst Zoo for Elephants!
Where: Los Angeles Zoo, front entrance
When: Sunday, January 28, 2024, 11 a.m. to 12:30 pm

Check out the Facebook Event Page for more information. 

Contact:

• In Defense of Animals: Lisa Levinson, lisa@idausa.org, 215-620-2130
• In Defense of Animals, Elephant Consultant, Courtney Scott, courtney@idausa.org 503-288-6142