For years, animal rights activists and celebrities have lobbied to have two elephants at the L.A. Zoo moved to a better habitat. The animals, Billy and Tina, were finally transferred last week, but only in the dead of night. They went not to a sanctuary, but to another zoo in Tulsa, Okalhoma — rated one of the worst in the country.
Billy and Tina’s move seemed designed to fly under the radar. It took place at around 1:30 am. Only after advocates noticed the empty elephant enclosure did the L.A. zoo confirm the transfer.
The move to Tulsa was approved by L.A. Zoo Director Denise Verret and L.A. Mayor Karen Bass. While advocates had pleaded with Bass to have the elephants sent to a sanctuary, she ended up deferring to the Assn. of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), which Verret happens to chair.
The fate of L.A.’s elephants has angered many Angelenos and further bruised Bass’ reputation. Her record on animals rights was already under scrutiny after she proposed a $4.8-million cut to Animal Services in the next budget.
“Moving [the elephants] in such a shady, secretive manner is highly unethical and shows the L.A. Zoo's complete lack of humanity and decency for these beloved elephants who have spent the majority of their lives in misery,” said Courtney Scott with In Defense of Animals (IDA).
City Councilmember Blumenfield agreed. He also called the situation a “sad reflection on the government of Los Angeles.”
“How do we trust that all options were truly evaluated, without any evidence of any analysis? The disregard for the public’s concern is patronizing and disrespectful to the thousands of Angelenos who have been calling for a viable sanctuary alternative,” the councilman said.
He added that the AZA was not necessarily looking out for the best interests of the elephants or the City of Los Angeles.
Animal lovers have taken to social media in recent days to criticize Bass and vow to have her unseated in the 2026 election. Like an elephant, they swear they will never forget.