"LUCKY" Our Asian Elephant

Dear Patrons:

It is the mission of the San Antonio Zoological Society to foster appreciation and concern for all living things. We are dedicated to providing the highest standards of care for our animal and plant collections, a diverse educational and high quality recreational experience for all visitors, and all the resources at our disposal for conservation of the Earth’s flora and fauna.

Our mission goes beyond this when it comes to our animal collection, especially elephant care. The Zoo’s Asian elephant “Lucky” has had an onslaught of inaccurate information. Because we passionately care for her, I’d like to take this opportunity to share a few crucial, but most importantly, true facts.

“Lucky” is most fortunate to have the intense care of a professional staff with 92 years of combined experience in biology, animal husbandry, and elephant management. She has two full-time veterinarians, both of whom are experienced in exotic animal medicine and, in particular, elephant care. “Lucky” receives the best in nutrition, enrichment, medical care, and constant attention. I have the utmost confidence that “Lucky” is content, comfortable, and is psychologically and physiologically healthy.
The San Antonio Zoo is an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited institution that follows strict and mandatory guidelines for elephant management and care set fourth by AZA.  The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service inspects the Zoo twice annually. We have always, and I feel confident will continue to pass inspection.

We also continue to diligently search for a companion for “Lucky,” since the death of “Alport,” our African elephant. Although it has not been an easy task, we will have an additional elephant soon.
For over 95 years, the collective efforts of dedicated individuals have helped the San Antonio Zoo become one of the best in the nation. The San Antonio Zoological Society and staff would like to thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

J. Stephen McCusker
Executive Director