Solitary Elephants in Japan: Progress and Gaps

Our 2021 update highlights the key developments and impact Elephants in Japan has had to date. Also included is a current overview of solitary captive elephants in Japan, the continuing challenges we face and our plans for the future. 

Anyone is welcome to download, read and use this update to learn more about the work of Elephants in Japan, and learn more about the captive elephant welfare situation in Japan.

“All solitary elephants, especially at substandard facilities, must be moved so they can join with others and their exhibits should be closed. Since it is ultimately impossible for any captive facility outside elephants’ natural range to provide appropriate living conditions, the importing and breeding of elephants for a life in captivity must be discontinued.”

– Dr. Keith Lindsay
Elephant Biologist and Author of “Solitary Elephants in Japan”

Animal Welfare

 Photo Credit: Tennoji ZooTennoji Zoo in Osaka has confirmed the arrival of three elephants from Malaysia — the zoo’s first elephants sin...

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Resources

What You Need to Know: Japanese Zoo Guidelines for Elephants Zoo and aquarium associations around the world, like the AZA (Association of Zoos and Aqu...

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Animal Welfare

Check out our feature in the latest Global Rumblings newsletter from the Global Sanctuary for Elephants (GSE)! How our partnership brings hope and cha...

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The Elephants

We recently sent a letter to the Japan Association for Zoos and Aquariums (JAZA) about the welfare of Miyako, the solitary captive elephant at Utsunom...

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The Elephants

宮子はかつてないほど悲惨な状況に陥っています。ゾウの専門家が視聴した最近の映像から、彼女の状態に以下...

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The Elephants

TL;DR (Too long, didn’t read):  Miyako’s situation is more dire than ever. Recent footage viewed by elephant experts reveals alarming changes...

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