This alert is no longer active, but here for reference. Animals still need your help.

The Bronx Zoo in New York City has been featured on our annual list of 10 Worst Zoos for Elephants 10 times over numerous concerns about the welfare of those it holds captive. Currently, Happy and Patty, who have languished there for decades despite legal efforts and calls from the public to free them, continue to suffer.

Now there's a historic chance to pass legislation that would ban elephant captivity in New York City, forcing the zoo to let these two highly intelligent and social animals go and ensuring no more are exploited. Please urge the New York City Council to pass this important piece of legislation!

Elephants are highly intelligent, social, and far-ranging animals whose needs can never be met in zoos. In captivity, they suffer from a host of physical and psychological problems not seen in their wild counterparts, and research continues to uncover the extent of the harm captivity causes.

Intro 963, which was introduced into the New York City Council this spring by Council Member Shahana Hanif, could set a national precedent as the first ban on elephant captivity if it's passed.

This legislation would ban elephant rides, forcing them to work or perform, and breeding. It would also require elephants to have access to appropriate enrichment, in addition to requiring 15 acres per elephant, essentially forcing the Bronx Zoo to close its exhibit.

This alert is no longer active, but here for reference. Animals still need your help.