The Elephant Sanctuary FAQs

Do they breed elephants?
The Elephant Sanctuary does not support increasing the number of captive elephants, as there is no assurance elephants born in captivity will ever be released in the wild.

Can the public visit the elephants?
The Elephant Sanctuary is a true sanctuary; thus, the elephants’ habitats are closed to the public.  You can observe the elephants anytime you like from the comfort of your own home via our live-streaming EleCams.

What makes Tennessee a good home for elephants?
The climate of Middle Tennessee is mild for most of the year, but no matter the weather, the elephants at The Sanctuary all have free-choice year round access to expansive habitats and heated barns. In the habitat, seasonal variations offer a range of vegetation for foraging and enrichment.

How is The Elephant Sanctuary different from other facilities caring for elephants?
The Elephant Sanctuary is one of two sanctuaries for elephants in North America accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries and the only sanctuary for elephants in North America accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The Elephant Sanctuary does not condone free contact management or dominance training of elephants and takes a stand against the use of the ankus (bullhook). The Elephant Sanctuary does not support the use of elephants in entertainment, as elephants are wild animals with complex physical and social needs not supported by the training, performing, confinement and travel demanded of elephants in entertainment.

How do elephants come to The Elephant Sanctuary?
Many of the resident elephants have come here as the result of collaboration between the elephant’s owners and The Sanctuary, though each story is remarkable and unique. The decision to transfer an elephant to a sanctuary is solely that of the elephant’s owner or in some cases, the legal system, such as when the owner fails to comply with the Animal Welfare Act. The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee strives to be a resource for any elephant in need of refuge and lifetime care, and we welcome legal decision-makers seeking placement options for any elephant to visit our facilities. To learn more about each elephant resident and how they came to The Sanctuary, please visit elephants.com/elephants.