Elephants in zoos have complex social, cognitive, and locomotion needs that few facilities can adequately meet, prompting debate about appropriate captive management.
Elephant welfare in zoos represents a microcosm of the broader debate about which species can be adequately cared for in captivity. Elephants need extensive space for locomotion, complex social groups that maintain natural family structures, appropriate substrate for their feet, and management that accommodates natural behaviors including musth in males. Few zoo facilities can provide all of these requirements, and the resulting welfare compromises are visible in stereotypic behaviors and health problems. The decision by some major zoos to transfer elephants to larger sanctuaries reflects honest welfare assessment.