Last elephant to leave Oakland Zoo

Oakland Zoo recognized as "gold standard" in zoological profession

For the 36th year in a row, Oakland Zoo has received accreditation from The Association of Zoos and Aquariums, which is considered the world "gold standard" for zoological facilities. A team from the AZA recently reviewed all of Oakland Zoo's operations including animal welfare, safety and security, veterinary care and conservation efforts. This accreditation renewal process must happen every 5 years to remain up to date and comes as the Oakland Zoo begins its 101st year in operation. KTVU's Alex Savidge discusses the achievement with Oakland Zoo CEO Nik Dehejia.

OAKLAND, Calif. - Osh, the lone elephant remaining at the Oakland Zoo, will depart for greener pastures by the end of the year.

That will leave the zoo without any elephants, down from a peak of four in 2019, the East Bay Times reported.

 The Association of Zoos and Aquariums accreditation standard for elephant exhibits is at least three female (or a mix of female and male elephants) or two male elephants.

The zoo kept Osh in the hopes of finding a male companion for him, but to no avail. 

So on Monday, the zoo shared video of 30-year-old Osh – on World Elephant Day – strolling about the dry grass, streamers waving in the wind. 

To say goodbye, Osh's care team put out a spread of treats, including bucket-sized fruit popsicles, and zoo guests were asked to sign a going away banner, as the giant elephant is headed to The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee in the fall.