Our Asian Elephants

Dear Friends:

It is the mission of the San Antonio Zoological Society to foster appreciation and concern for all living things. We are dedicated to providing: the highest standards of care for our animal and plant collections, a diverse educational and high quality recreational experience for all visitors; and all the resources at our disposal for conservation of the Earth’s flora and fauna.

Our mission goes beyond this when it comes to our animal collection, particularly elephant care. There has been an onslaught of inaccurate information regarding the Zoo's Asian elephants. Because we passionately care for our elephants, I’d like to take this opportunity to share a few crucial, but most importantly, real facts.

“Lucky”and "Boo" are most fortunate to have the intense care of a professional staff with over 100 years of combined experience in biology, animal husbandry, and elephant management. They have two full-time veterinarians, both of whom are experienced in exotic animal medicine and, in particular, elephant care. “Lucky” and "Boo" receive the best in nutrition, enrichment, medical care, and constant attention. I have the utmost confidence that both elephants are content, comfortable, and are psychologically and physiologically healthy.

The San Antonio Zoo is an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited institution. We follow strict and mandatory AZA guidelines for elephant management and care. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service inspects the Zoo at least twice annually. We always, and I feel confident will continue to, pass inspection.

For over 96 years, the collective efforts of dedicated individuals have helped the San Antonio Zoo become one of the best in the nation. The San Antonio Zoological Society and staff would like to thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

J. Stephen McCusker
Executive Director