The Supreme Court in Mexico has ordered the San Juan de Aragón Zoo in Mexico City to improve the health and living conditions of Ely, an African elephant who has been in captivity for over a decade.
This is the first time the country’s highest court has ruled in favor of an animal’s welfare.
The court ruled that Ely’s health and physical condition must be “constantly improved.” Animal rights advocates have long argued that Ely suffered from depression, especially after the death of her companion, Maggie, in 2016.
She displayed signs of distress, such as banging against the walls of her enclosure and losing weight, leading some to call her “the world’s saddest elephant.”
Ely, estimated to be between 43 and 45 years old, was rescued from a circus in 2012 and brought to the zoo. Activist Diana Valencia, who has been fighting for Ely’s rights, said she was deeply moved by the elephant’s suffering and promised to help her.
Although the zoo has expanded Ely’s enclosure and introduced two more elephants in recent years, Valencia and other activists continue to push for all three elephants to be moved to a sanctuary in Brazil or the United States.
Veterinarian Gabriela Uribe Acosta, the zoo’s director, denied that Ely is still depressed, saying that her condition has improved and that she is more active and vocal. A team of caretakers is responsible for maintaining her enclosure and monitoring her health.
Lawyer Sergio Méndez Silva from the Foundation for Justice said the court’s decision could set a legal precedent in Mexico, recognizing that animals have rights.
Activists hope this ruling will improve protections for other animals in captivity.
