Happy, a well-known elephant at the Bronx Zoo, has been absent from public view for nearly six weeks, causing concern among animal rights activists. The 53-year-old elephant is believed to be spending her time in a small barn within her enclosure, a behavior that is considered unusual for her species.
Courtney Fern, a representative from the Nonhuman Rights Project, expressed her worry about Happy’s well-being. She suggested that the elephant’s absence could be a sign of depression or physical discomfort. Fern, who serves as a director of government relations for the organization, stated that Happy’s choice to remain indoors could indicate a loss of will to live or a lack of joy in her usual outdoor activities.
Happy, who is typically visible to zoo visitors near a pond from the zoo’s monorail, has not been seen since July 14. The Nonhuman Rights Project has been sending activists to monitor Happy’s situation. The elephant’s prolonged absence has led to speculation about her whereabouts and well-being, despite the zoo’s assurance that she is in good health.
The zoo has maintained that Happy is merely choosing to stay in areas that are not visible from the observation monorail. They claim she is spending time in other indoor and outdoor areas that are not accessible to the public. Happy, who was at the center of a court case arguing for elephant “personhood,” was not visible when reporters visited her enclosure.
Fern expressed skepticism about the zoo’s explanation, stating that Happy’s behavior is not typical for an elephant. She suggested that the elephant’s reluctance to come outside could be a sign of mental or physical distress. Fern further emphasized her concern, stating that the confinement to a small space could be detrimental to Happy’s physical and mental health.
Mary Dixon, a spokesperson for the Bronx Zoo, reiterated the zoo’s previous statement that Happy is in good health. However, she did not respond to further inquiries about why Happy might be isolating herself or whether the zoo has plans to intervene. Animal rights activists, including Fern, believe the solution is clear: Happy should be moved to a sanctuary where she can live out the rest of her life.