Anna the Elephant | Credit: Maryland Zoo

Anna the Elephant (1975-2024)

Obituary

Anna, an African Elephant, died after nearly 50 years spent in captivity.

Anna was euthanized after a fall at the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore. She was 49. Anna was the oldest member of the zoo’s elephant exhibit, referred to as the “cornerstone” of the group by zoo staff. She came to Baltimore from the Terry Lou Zoo in New Jersey all the way back in 1983. Three other African Elephants—Felix, Samson, and Tuffy—are living at the Maryland Zoo.

In a statement announcing Anna’s death zoo officials also included a solicitation for anyone wishing to further support Anna’s legacy to make a direct donation to the zoo. African Elephants are meant to roam freely on the African continent, not be held in captivity. Wild animal breeding programs are often not focused on conservation—captive bred animals can rarely be introduced into the wild—but stem from the business model of modern zoos.

Anna’s legacy is better honored by supporting responsible tourism that allows distanced observation of wild animals in your communities or while on vacation. We encourage you to visit and support accredited wild animal sanctuaries or Wildlife Heritage Areas to explore options for animal-friendly activities that do not perpetuate captivity.

Joyce, another African Elephant, is currently living in captivity at the Six Flags Great Adventure’s Wild Safari in New Jersey. Learn Joyce’s story and help us push Six Flags to release her to a reputable elephant sanctuary immediately!

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