Dublin Zoo Faces Call from TD to Stop Keeping Elephants
Calls to end the elephant exhibition at Dublin Zoo are intensifying, led by People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy. He addressed the issue at a recent event organized by Freedom for Animals in Dublin.
Dublin Zoo’s Elephant Exhibition Under Scrutiny
During his speech, Murphy expressed strong opposition to the practice of keeping elephants in captivity. He highlighted the detrimental effects this has on the animals’ health and well-being. He stated, “We don’t think that elephants should be imported into Dublin Zoo. Elephants have no place in often quite small areas of captivity.”
Concerns Over Elephant Welfare
Experts at the event echoed Murphy’s sentiments. Zoologist Robert Atkinson pointed out that Dublin Zoo’s space for elephants is significantly limited. “The area is less than a hectare. They can walk across it in less than a minute,” he said.
- Asha, a four-year-old calf, was recently introduced to a male elephant.
- Elephants typically give birth around the age of 14 or 15.
- Asha suffered a genital infection leading to the death of her baby.
Atkinson further noted that 13 of the 30 elephants that have lived in Dublin Zoo have been sent to other facilities, raising concerns about their emotional well-being. He emphasized the social nature of elephants, stating, “The females stay together for life.” He criticized the zoo for sending elephants to facilities with poor reputations, including one in America listed among the worst zoos for elephants.
Zoo’s Response to Criticism
Dublin Zoo countered these allegations, stating that the Freedom for Animals report reflects a biased perspective. A zoo spokesperson affirmed their commitment to animal welfare, citing adherence to international best practices.
Wild Lights Exhibition Criticized
Murphy also condemned the zoo’s Wild Lights exhibition, a winter event featuring illuminated animal replicas. This exhibition operates from November to January after normal closing hours. Critics, including animal welfare expert Andrew Kelly, argue that such events add stress to animals by increasing human contact.
- Last year, 26 containers of light-up animals were imported from China.
- Extended hours for the Wild Lights exhibition raise environmental concerns.
The debate around the elephant exhibition and the Wild Lights event highlights ongoing discussions about animal welfare and ethics in captivity. As discussions continue, supporters of animal rights urge for immediate reforms regarding the treatment of elephants at Dublin Zoo.
