Recent screen grabs from the TES elecam show that two elephants, Sissy and Winkie, have dropped a considerable amount of weight, enough to cause concern about their health.

TES supporters have contacted the TES board and staff seeking an explanation in the drastic change in Sissy and Winkie’s condition, but have received no answer.

We are not questioning the care TES provides its resident elephants but we do feel that TES should be transparent and accountable to its supporters. 

We are also concerned about the lack of elephant experience and knowledge both on the TES board and staff. We do not know the cause of Sissy and Winkie’s dramatic weight loss but it is legitimate to ask. 

Therefore, we are asking the USDA and Tennessee Wildlife Resources Authority (TWRA) to send qualified experts to TES to examine Sissy, Winkie and the other resident elephants.

Please sign this petition and send polite and respectful emails (please use the language from this page) to:

1) Tom Vilsack, US Secretary of Agriculture: AgSec@usda.gov
2) Kevin Shea, Administrator, USDA Animal and Plant Inspection Services: kevin.a.shea@usda.gov 
3) Dr. Chester A. Gipson, Deputy Administrator, Animal Care Program: chester.a.gipson@usda.gov
4) Walter Cook, Captive Wildlife Coordinator, TWRA, walter.cook@tn.gov