PHOENIX – The Phoenix Zoo has announced the passing of its last elephant, Indu, who was euthanized on May 8, 2025, at the age of 59. Indu, a female Asian elephant, spent most of her life in captivity and had become a beloved figure at the zoo since her arrival in 1998. Her gentle spirit and intelligence captivated millions of visitors, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire wildlife conservation efforts.
According to the zoo, Indu had been struggling with chronic osteoarthritis and age-related illnesses. She had been receiving daily medication, hydrotherapy, laser therapy, and physical therapy to manage her conditions. Despite the dedicated care from her team, her health declined, leading to the decision to humanely euthanize her.
“Her gentle spirit, intelligence, and resilience inspired not only our staff but also the millions of guests who visited her over the years,” said Bert Castro, president and CEO of the Phoenix Zoo. “Her legacy will live on through the stories we share, the connections she helped people form with wildlife, and our continued commitment to the highest standards of animal care.”
Indu had been the only elephant at the Phoenix Zoo since November 2021, after the deaths of two long-time companions. The average life expectancy for an elephant in a facility accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is 48 years, making Indu's lifespan remarkable.
Dan Ashe, president and CEO of the AZA, also praised Indu, stating, “The elephant Indu lived and thrived under the compassionate care of dedicated and expert professional staff at the Phoenix Zoo. Her 59 years of life is a testament to the focus on animal care and wellbeing that is a hallmark of the Phoenix Zoo and all AZA-accredited members.”
Despite these sentiments, not everyone shares the zoo's view on Indu's care. The animal rights group In Defense of Animals (IDA) expressed deep concern over her living conditions, criticizing the zoo for keeping her in solitary confinement. Brittany Michelson, IDA campaign specialist for captive animals, stated, “We are shocked and deeply saddened by the death of Indu — but even more alarmed by the zoo’s silence and contradictory statements about her health. Indu deserved a chance to experience the freedom of a sanctuary, not death behind closed doors.”
In fact, IDA ranked the Phoenix Zoo as the tenth worst zoo for elephants in North America in its 2024 report, citing Indu's solitary living conditions as a significant factor. The organization had previously held a demonstration at the zoo, urging officials to relocate Indu to an elephant sanctuary to live out her remaining days in a more natural environment.
Zoo officials have staunchly denied allegations of mistreatment, insisting that Indu received the best possible care. Earlier this year, Dr. Gary West, the zoo’s senior vice president of animal health and living collections, indicated that there were no plans to house other elephants at the facility after Indu's passing, as her exhibition space would be repurposed for one-horned rhinoceroses.
Indu's story has not only highlighted her individual life but has also raised awareness about the plight of elephants in the wild. Heather Wright, the elephant collection manager at the zoo, noted, “Indu has made and continues to leave an indelible impression on all who have the privilege to care for her and the guests who have had the joy of seeing her.”
The zoo has created a memorial webpage dedicated to Indu, featuring photos, videos, and memories shared by her keepers. This tribute aims to honor her legacy and the impact she had on countless visitors, from children seeing an elephant for the first time to lifelong supporters of the zoo.
“Her imposing stature was matched only by her gentle demeanor, and she brought smiles to the faces of countless guests,” the zoo stated in their announcement of her passing. “We take solace in the profound impact she had on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.”
Indu's death marks a significant moment for the Phoenix Zoo, as it reflects on the past and the future of animal care and conservation. The zoo's commitment to educating the public about wildlife and advocating for conservation efforts will continue, inspired by the legacy of Indu.
As the community mourns the loss of this beloved elephant, the conversation around animal welfare and the responsibilities of zoos will likely continue to evolve. The affection and respect for Indu serve as a reminder of the importance of compassionate treatment of all animals, both in captivity and in the wild.
In the end, Indu's life was not just about her time at the zoo; it was about the connections she helped foster between humans and wildlife, a legacy that will endure long after her passing.
