The BBC is reporting that Noah's Ark Zoo Farm near Bristol is planning to build a new enclosure to house elephants on its grounds, a move that has been widely criticized by many animal advocacy groups.

On top of the fact that there has been a steady trend toward closing elephant exhibits over the past two decades, this announcement comes on the heels of an elephant attacking a trainer at a zoo in Ohio and another elephant dying mysteriously at a zoo in Massachusetts.

Noah's Arc Zoo has already been under investigation by the North Somerset Council this year for allegations of cruelty by the The Captive Animal Protection Society.

A spokesman for the zoo assures the public of the familiar promises we're used to hearing from the animal-entertainment industry: that the animals will be well cared for, will benefit from large modern enclosures, etc.

Not only are these promises always hollow mockeries when they come from people who profit from animal captivity and entertainment, but according to the article, this zoo has already been expelled from the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums as a result of a questionable relationship with a circus. As if a zoo isn't bad enough, this is a zoo with ties to a circus. It's almost like the twin enemies of elephants everywhere have joined forces.

The RSPCA said studies had shown elephants often develop lameness, obesity and behavioural abnormalities in zoos.

The charity's senior scientist, Dr Ros Clubb, said: "It is clear elephants do not fare well in zoos and we believe it would be highly irresponsible to introduce yet more of the animals to such a damaging environment.

"They are highly intelligent and sensitive animals. In the wild they will range over tens of kilometres of land a day, exploring and foraging for food."

Please sign this petition targeting Bristol Council and the Noah's Arc Zoo to stop the profiteering and captivity of these wonderful animals. Enough is enough for the elephants!

Photo Credit: Ryan McCullah