Throughout the U.S., United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) licensees holding a Class C Exhibitor's License are permitted to keep elephants in captivity for public exhibition. Exhibitors include zoos, carnivals, circuses, animal acts, and “educational” exhibits, both for and not for profit.

To obtain USDA licensing, all individuals or businesses must register under the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and adhere to the guidelines outlined by the Animal Welfare Act. There are no elephant-specific regulations in place to promote their mental or physical health, safety, or comfort.

Add your name to our petition to the USDA calling for the formation of a task force at the agency to explore how to address current welfare and conservation concerns relating to elephants in zoos, to work towards the phase-out of elephant captivity in the U.S.