Elephant Export Crates

After 99 years, Auckland Zoo are phasing out their Asian elephants. They leave for Australia in April.

Do you have any idea what they might be replaced with? Indian Rhino would be ideal, but likely unrealistic at this point without an import from Europe or the US.

@DelacoursLangur Unfortunately the plan is to build a Southern white rhinoceros exhibit on the site (a species that’s been at Auckland Zoo since 1980). It’s incredibly disappointing for me and many others who were hoping for a walk through flamingo aviary; or dreaming of gorillas and hippos!

Do you know why they are phasing them out?

@birdsandbats The decision was made due to the difficulties in establishing a herd at Auckland (inability to import more elephants, inability to undertake AI); combined with other factors such as public perception of elephants held in city zoos; and cost.

It’s explained in further detail here: Auckland Zoo announces decision to move elephants | Auckland Zoo News

I would love to see them before they do depart in April.