FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 9, 2011

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Ilka Daniel, Director of Animal Protective Services
(772) 388-3331 ext. 28

Janet Winikoff, Director of Education
(772) 388-3331 ext. 18

Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County Statement Regarding the Housing and Possible Breeding of Captive Elephants in Fellsmere, Florida

(Vero Beach, Florida) – The Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County (HSVB & IRC) has concerns about the propagation and housing of any captive, non-native wildlife in our community.

This includes the possible breeding of Asian and African elephants or keeping them in a setting other than a permanent sanctuary. It is our position that such endeavors are more suitable and humane when accomplished in a species’ natural habitat. Keeping elephants may also have a negative environmental impact on our county’s fragile ecosystem and presents concerns for human health and safety.

While the residents, government officials, humane and environmental groups of St. Lucie County were afforded a public forum when the keeping of elephants was proposed for their community, the residents of Indian River County have had no opportunity for open discourse or to explore the issues brought up in St. Lucie County.

In addition, The HSVB & IRC has reached out to several national and international wildlife advocacy organizations to determine their perspective or involvement. With the exception of zoological parks and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, we are unaware of any national or international wildlife conservation or advocacy organization currently affiliated with or supportive of an elephant facility in Fellsmere, Florida.

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