Elephant welfare in traditional zoo settings has been the subject of increasing scrutiny, with purpose-built sanctuaries emerging as superior welfare environments.
Even exemplary zoo elephant enclosures cannot provide the space, social complexity, and environmental diversity that elephants experience in the wild. The welfare consequences including foot disease, stereotypic behaviour, and shortened lifespan are measurable. Responsible zoos have recognised this and transferred elephants to accredited sanctuaries. Supporting sanctuaries that prioritise elephant welfare over public exhibition represents the most ethical option for captive elephants.