LA Zoo Elephants Relocated to Tulsa for Accreditation

Billy and Tina, the last two Asian elephants at the Los Angeles Zoo, were relocated to the Tulsa Zoo in a discreet, 26-hour transfer after ongoing protests and legal challenges from advocates who preferred sanctuary placement. The move became necessary for the LA Zoo to meet Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accreditation standards, as the deaths of other elephants left its population below requirements. Tulsa Zoo was selected for its newly expanded facilities and established elephant herd, further aligned with AZA and Elephant Species Survival Plan recommendations. Both elephants arrived safely and will undergo quarantine before joining the Tulsa herd. Despite public and celebrity appeals, a judge declined to block the transfer, with zoo officials maintaining the decision prioritized the elephants’ health and social needs. The controversy has fueled wider debate about captive elephant welfare and calls for sanctuary alternatives.