NSPCA angered by zoo’s ‘decision’ to acquire new elephant
SAXONWOLD – The NSPCA is angered by what they believe to be Joburg Zoo's decision to acquire another elephant. However, Joburg Zoo says they have not made a decision to acquire another elephant.
The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) is appalled after learning via a tip-off that the Johannesburg Zoo wishes to obtain another elephant following the passing of Kinkel, earlier this year.
The NSPCA’s disgust at this prospect follows in the wake of a number of protests (Read more here) regarding what many animal rights organisations believe to be the unjust treatment of Lammie, the only remaining elephant at the zoo.
Since Kinkel’s passing in September, protests have taken place outside the zoo calling for Lammie to be released from the captive environment at the Johannesburg Zoo
Read more here: WATCH: Picket calls for the release of Lammie the elephant from Joburg Zoo, City Parks responds
A spokesperson for the Joburg Zoo, Jenny Moodley said, “The NSPCA’s statement is misleading. We have not made a decision to secure a companion for Lammie at this stage.”
The NSPCA said, “The captive environment for elephants at the Johannesburg Zoo is detrimental to any elephant’s wellbeing.”
The NSPCA’s statement also mentioned their disappointment that the Johannesburg Metro run by the Democratic Alliance (DA) approved this decision.
“Both the Johannesburg Zoo and the DA profess to believe in and uphold the Five Freedoms, an ethos which outlines basic animal welfare, yet the decision to introduce another elephant into a facility which does not meet these freedoms has been considered acceptable by the Johannesburg Zoo and the DA.”
The NSPCA said they will secure an appropriate and accredited sanctuary for Lammie, which they believe will be greatly beneficial to her well-being.
“The NSPCA challenges the DA to uplift Lammie’s welfare and make the correct decision to move Lammie to an appropriate and accredited sanctuary and not condemn another elephant to a life of captivity. Now is the time to prove your commitment to animal welfare,” said the NSPCA.
