A few weeks ago, we reported that Billy and Tina, the beloved last two Asian elephants at the L.A. Zoo, were set to be relocated to the Tulsa Zoo in Oklahoma. The reason? Improved living conditions thanks to the larger space at their new home, and better physical and mental health outcomes for these two elephants, who urgently need the support of a herd.
While the plan was initially welcomed, it wasn’t long before animal rights groups began to speak out. Their argument is clear: Billy and Tina should be sent to an elephant sanctuary, not another zoo. Organizations like In Defense of Animals (IDA), launched a petition to reroute the elephants to a sanctuary, while rallies were held outside the zoo.
Now, a local L.A. resident has filed a lawsuit pushing for the sanctuary option, and Cher is backing it. The singer’s involvement doesn’t come as a surprise, given her long history as an animal advocate. She has spoken out for Billy and Tina in the past.
According to a Los Angeles Times article, the lawsuit is supported by Cher, who stated, “Billy and Tina have served their time in confinement. They deserve the chance to live out their lives in peace and dignity.” The lawsuit, filed by John Kelly, an animal lover and longtime L.A. resident, details the health issues elephants face in captivity, including “zoochosis”, a psychological disorder caused by prolonged confinement.
As of now, no official date has been set for Billy and Tina’s relocation to Tulsa, and it remains unclear whether the elephants will ultimately be sent to a sanctuary instead.