JACKSON – An animal welfare group has asked federal officials to investigate whether five African elephants at Six Flags Great Adventure have enough outdoor shade. The park disputes the allegation and says its animal care complies with federal law.
World Animal Protection US filed a complaint with the U.S. Department of Agriculture after reviewing aerial imagery of the elephants’ enclosure. The group says the outdoor space has little vegetation or shade and alleges that conditions may violate a federal rule requiring natural or artificial shade for animals housed outdoors.
The group says elephants need ways to escape direct sun and cool themselves, particularly during hot weather. It also argues that the barn on the property does not adequately address its concerns about the outdoor enclosure.
“Joyce and the other elephants are kept in a barren, roughly one-acre enclosure with little to no natural shade,” said Liz Cabrera Holtz, the group’s senior programs manager. She said the organization has asked Six Flags to transfer the elephants to a sanctuary.
Six Flags rejected the allegation. “The health and wellbeing of our animals remains a top priority, and we unequivocally stand behind the care we provide,” Ryan Eldredge, the park’s director of sales and marketing, told Jersey Shore Online. “Six Flags Great Adventure is fully compliant with the Animal Welfare Act and undergoes regular inspections by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.”
Eldredge added that the elephants have access to indoor and outdoor areas, veterinary care, enrichment and daily care practices intended to support their well-being.
The complaint asks the USDA to investigate; it is not a finding that Six Flags violated federal law.
World Animal Protection is inviting residents to a protest October 24 urging Six Flags to close its elephant exhibit and relocate the animals to a sanctuary.
The demonstration, promoted as “Protest for Joyce,” will run from noon to 1 p.m. at Adventure Crossing, 515 Monmouth Road.
Organizers said the location is less than 2 miles from Six Flags and will allow demonstrators to be visible to motorists heading toward the park. They described it as the closest nearby location suitable for a safe, public protest. Organizers tell Jersey Shore Online that signs will be provided for participants.
