Animal rights group
comes down on zoo

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - A national animal rights group is coming down hard on the Buffalo Zoo and the new home for its three elephants.

The Buffalo Zoo now ranks as the fourth worst zoo for elephants in the country according to the group's list.

Worries they may suffer and die faster but some animal experts don't agree with the findings.

"We've been in contact with whistle blowers from the zoo for a number of years now."

Whistle blowers have apparently expressed concern about the living conditions of Buki, Surapa and Jothi.

The three elephants moved into their new Elephant House at the end of the summer after a million dollar renovation.

"They now cram three elephants into an 1800 square foot area that's about the size of a small suburban home which is fine for a family of four people."

Suzanne Roy works for "In Defense of Animals," a rescue and advocacy organization based in California which says the Buffalo Zoo is inadequate for the three elephants.

"They really suffer and die in the intense confinement of traditional zoo exhibits."

Doctor Reed Stevens is a veterinarian. He's also helping in the efforts to renovate the zoo's veterinarian hospital.

Dr. Stevens said, "You have to consider all the things that the zoo does to improve the quality of life. Zoo enrichment is very important and it's really an advanced science."

In a statement, Zoo President Dr. Donna Fernandes tells News 4 the elephants enjoy indoor space that exceeds the standard requirements, and the outdoor space available to them is more than 24,000 square feet.

"I think that the list is unfortunate, it does harm to a community that's working hard to support an important cultural asset."