Elephants thrive after zoo welfare boost

Working in close partnership with Animals Asia as part of our capacity development program, the zoo has transformed its elephant management. These changes not only improve the lives of the elephants at the zoo, but also sets a precedent for improving animal welfare across the country and beyond.

Animals Asia works with zoos and animal venues across Asia to improve standards of care for captive animals. At Chengdu Zoo, our captive animal welfare team, alongside international elephant care expert Margaret Whittaker, delivered in-depth welfare workshops that have inspired lasting improvements for the zoo’s resident elephants.

Major improvements for the elephants include

• A stronger, more effective elephant foot care program
• Plans to rebuild training structures to provide better daily care
• Expanded enrichment activities to keep minds and bodies active
• 24-hour outdoor access, giving elephants the freedom to roam under the stars
• Fun new sand piles for play and relaxation

The elephants are already benefiting from the improvements; Mojia, a female Asian elephant, has been spotted happily rolling in her new sand pit – a simple addition that’s brought endless hours of joy.

The zoo has proudly shared news of these changes with its many followers, while also using its platform to urge visitors not to attend elephant shows or ride elephants, powerful advocacy for a kinder future for all captive elephants.

Why this matters

These welfare wins are part of Animals Asia’s mission to raise standards of care, end the exploitation of animals in entertainment, and inspire a shift towards compassion-led tourism.

Working hand-in-hand with the China Association of Zoological Gardens, our program equips animal care teams with the skills and knowledge they need, while engaging the public with a message of empathy and respect for wildlife.

Every change we help create is a step towards a world where animals are treated with dignity – and elephants can live the lives they deserve.