Roger Williams Park Zoo’s recent announcement that its three African elephants—Alice, Ginny, and Kate—will move to The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee at the end of 2027 has renewed a familiar question in Greater New Bedford: Why hasn’t Buttonwood Park Zoo done the same? From a personal standpoint I have long enjoyed seeing them at the zoo along with hundreds of thousands of locals over the years. I recall when the elephants (not sure which one) would wander around with a keeper and visit the tennis courts or make a late night trip to the Dunkin’ drive thru; yes that really happened! So lets venture into this hot topic.
The Rhode Island zoo said it selected the sanctuary after an extensive evaluation process, prompting many to wonder whether Buttonwood Park Zoo’s remaining Asian elephant, Emily, could also be relocated.
The debate resurfaced following the death of Ruth, Buttonwood Park Zoo’s 66-year-old Asian elephant, in December 2024. Ruth spent 38 years in New Bedford after arriving in 1986 from a private owner who had mistreated her, and her passing reignited calls from some animal welfare advocates to move Emily to a sanctuary.
Zoo officials have long maintained that relocation is not in Emily’s best interest. They cite her advanced age, longstanding health concerns, and the risks associated with transporting a geriatric elephant. They also say introducing an elderly elephant to an unfamiliar herd could create additional stress rather than improve her quality of life.
Instead, Buttonwood Park Zoo has invested in upgrades to Emily’s habitat, including replacing the elephant barn floor and improving outdoor space. Officials say remaining in familiar surroundings with longtime caregivers offers the safest and most humane option.
Animal welfare advocates disagree, arguing that accredited sanctuaries provide older elephants with more space and opportunities to socialize with other elephants, even later in life.
The differing decisions by Roger Williams Park Zoo and Buttonwood Park Zoo reflect the complex factors involved in elephant care. While Roger Williams determined a sanctuary was the best future for its elephants, Buttonwood officials continue to believe that Emily’s age, history, and individual needs make remaining in New Bedford the better choice. We’re going to listen to the folks that work and care for her every day. All photos from the Buttonwood Park Zoo Facebook page.
