Belfast Zoo has decided to “phase out elephants” from its “future animal collection plan”, with Asian elephants Dhunja and Yhetto set to be “transferred together” to another zoo.
Dhunja and Yhetto, who are both in their 40s, were rescued from the circus and logging trade. Belfast City Council said the zoo has “provided a sanctuary for older non-breeding female elephants in recent years” (via BelfastLive).
“The animals in our care at Belfast Zoo change regularly, reflecting our unwavering commitment to conservation,” Belfast City Council added.
“Our collection plans are regularly reviewed and consider a range of factors including conservation status, habitat requirements, resources, public engagement and strategic direction.”
“The very difficult decision has been made to phase out elephants from the zoo’s future animal collection plan,” the council said.
Asian elephants being “transferred together”
Dhunja and Yhetto will be transferred together to a different zoo. Belfast City Council and Belfast Zoo are working closely with the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) to find “the best possible new home for them”.
“Belfast Zoo continues to meet all animal welfare standards and provide the highest level of care for this endangered species,” the council added. “Visitors can continue to see the elephants while they remain at their Cave Hill home.”
Paignton Zoo has also confirmed that it will no longer keep elephants because it can’t provide the “necessary environment” for the “highly intelligent” animals. The zoo will not replace Asian elephant Gay and African elephant Duchess.
“As much as we loved Duchess (and her companion, Gay, who died in 2010) and as popular as she was with our visitors, we do not believe that we can provide the necessary environment for elephants here at Paignton,” it said.
Images: Belfast Zoo
