The Second Chamber of the Supreme Court approved a comprehensive plan to ensure the well-being of animals in zoos. One of the emblematic cases is that of the elephant Ely, whose living conditions have raised concerns. In April 2022, Arturo Berlanga, director of Anima Naturalis International, pointed out that Ely's conditions do not provide sufficient environmental enrichment. Living in complete isolation has led her to be known as the 'saddest' elephant in Mexico.
According to Abriendo Jaulas y Abriendo Mentes, Ely faces various difficulties at the San Juan de Aragón Zoo: she is in perpetual captivity, a victim of exploitation, and does not participate in conservation programs. There is an intention to leave her alone in her confinement until her death.
Ely was part of a circus for 25 years and suffered violence and exploitation. Therefore, the Second Chamber of the Supreme Court approved a protective order to safeguard her and ensure her well-being at the zoo. Minister Yasmín Esquivel Mossa proposed to ratify the ruling that acknowledges the authorities' obligation to care for the elephant's well-being.
The protective appeal for Ely was promoted in August 2021 by Marcos Mario Zacky Halkin, who represents the elephant. It was reported that Ely lives in total solitude and that captivity has affected her emotional well-being, causing her stress, anxiety, and depression. She has even developed self-destructive behaviors such as hitting her head against the walls.
Despite the initially recognized deficiencies, the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection filed a review arguing the lack of legitimate interest from those who promoted the appeal. After the project's approval, Esquivel Mossa celebrated the decision stating that Ely will no longer be known as the saddest elephant in the world, after years of loneliness at the Aragón Zoo.
