Mali, the only captive elephant in the Philippines, passes away at the age of 43, sparking tributes and reigniting the debate on animal welfare.
Mali, an Asian elephant known as the world’s “saddest” elephant, has died at the Manila Zoo in the Philippines. The announcement was made by Manila’s Mayor Honey Lacuna, who revealed that Mali had passed away at the age of 43. Mali had been a resident at the zoo for over 40 years and was considered one of its star attractions. Her death has prompted an outpouring of tributes and has reignited the debate on animal welfare and the ethics of keeping animals in captivity.
1: A Life in Captivity
Mali’s life in captivity began in 1981 when she was given to the city government of Manila by the Sri Lankan government. For over four decades, she resided at the Manila Zoo, captivating visitors with her presence. However, her captivity also drew the attention of animal welfare activists and organizations worldwide, who argued that she suffered in confinement.
2: Health Issues and Controversy
In the days leading up to her death, signs of Mali’s deteriorating health became apparent. The zoo’s chief veterinarian, Dr. Heinrich Pena-Domingo, observed Mali displaying indicators of pain, including repeatedly rubbing her trunk against a wall. Despite administering antihistamines and vitamins, Mali’s condition worsened, and she passed away from pancreatic cancer and a blockage in her aorta. The controversy surrounding Mali’s captivity and the conditions she lived in has long been a topic of debate.
3: Global Relocation Campaign
Over the years, Mali became the focus of a global relocation campaign. Animal welfare organizations, including People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), and renowned elephant experts advocated for her release to a sanctuary, where she could have lived among other elephants. The campaign gained further traction when Paul McCartney, the legendary musician and animal rights activist, wrote a letter to then-Philippine President Benigno Aquino III, urging Mali’s transfer to a sanctuary.
4: Solitary Confinement and Animal Welfare
The controversy surrounding Mali’s captivity highlights the broader issue of animal welfare in captivity. Elephants are highly social animals that thrive in the company of their mothers, sisters, and other elephants. Living in isolation can lead to behavioral issues and physical ailments. Animal welfare organizations, such as Four Paws, emphasize that captive elephants often exhibit repetitive behaviors like pacing, rocking, and weaving, which are signs of distress.
5: The Legacy of Mali
Mali’s passing has left a void at the Manila Zoo, where she was considered a beloved figure. Mayor Honey Lacuna expressed her grief, stating that Mali was a part of their lives and the face that greeted visitors to the zoo. However, her death has also sparked reflection on the ethics of keeping animals in captivity and the need for improved animal welfare standards.
Conclusion: Mali’s death at the Manila Zoo has reignited the debate on animal welfare and the ethics of keeping animals in captivity. Her life in confinement and the global campaign for her release shed light on the challenges faced by captive animals, particularly highly social species like elephants. Mali’s legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of providing animals with suitable habitats and companionship to ensure their well-being. As the world mourns the loss of Mali, her story serves as a catalyst for change in the treatment of captive animals.
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