We are extremely disappointed to learn that the Los Angeles Zoo has announced that it’s sending its two ailing Asian elephants, Billy and Tina, to the Elephant Experience and Preserve at the Tulsa Zoo, despite thousands of calls to send them to sanctuary.

The Los Angeles Zoo was named the number one worst zoo on In Defense of Animals’ annual list of the 10 Worst Zoos for Elephants in 2024 for the second consecutive year and for the ninth time overall for failing to send Billy, 40, and Tina, 59, to sanctuary where their care and autonomy would be prioritized.

Serious concerns have continued to be raised about Billy and Tina, who are suffering from severe medical conditions, including foot and joint disease and chronic arthritis. Both display profound zoochosis, which is marked by repetitive behaviors such as swaying, bobbing, and pacing which are clear signs of psychological trauma and brain damage.

Thousands of people have joined us in calling for Billy and Tina’s freedom. It’s disheartening that the zoo has failed to listen and honor them with the sanctuary retirement they deserve. We fervently hope that the tragic plight of Tina and Billy and what they have endured will change hearts and minds about keeping elephants in captivity. We will continue advocating for more zoos, including the LA Zoo, to make the progressive decision to permanently close their exhibits, as 38 other zoos have already done, including six in California.

The Tulsa Zoo was named among the 10 Worst Zoos in 2022 over a lack of space, even with renovations, for the three elephants confined there at the time. There are now five, and Billy and Tina will make seven.

However, we are not giving up. A new motion was just filed by LA City Councilmember Bob Blumenfield.

This new motion instructs the Los Angeles Zoo to provide a report within 30 days that includes all available options for relocating the elephants, including sanctuaries. See more here.