Chase LaDue
Curator of Research
Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden
Dr Chase LaDue is a zoo scientist and field conservationist whose work bridges animal welfare research, elephant ecology and community-led conservation.
As curator of research at the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden, he leads studies on the wellbeing and long-term sustainability of zoo-housed populations, with a particular focus on managing Asian elephants.
His research addresses key questions around male elephant management and musth, translating scientific findings into practical improvements in animal care. He also leads collaborative research into the relationship between musth and elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV).
Alongside his zoo-based work, LaDue is founder and executive director of the Sri Lanka Elephant Project (SLEP), a multidisciplinary programme investigating elephant behaviour, physiology and human–elephant coexistence.
Building on his experience as a Fulbright Fellow in Sri Lanka, he leads long-term research in Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks, applying findings to community education, wildlife tourism and local conservation initiatives.
LaDue also contributes to conservation strategy as a research advisor to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Elephant Taxon Advisory Group, Asian elephant coordinator for the International Elephant Foundation and a National Geographic Explorer.
A dedicated mentor, he supports students and early-career researchers in the United States and Sri Lanka, helping build local scientific capacity. Recognised with his zoo’s Conservation Hero Award, Chase champions an integrated approach to animal welfare, field research and conservation.
