Ill. zoo seeks elephant despite opposition

CHICAGO, Feb. 5 (UPI) -- Officials at a zoo in the Chicago suburb of Brookfield, Ill., say they are seeking an elephant to serve as a companion to their African elephant, Joyce.

The Chicago Tribune said Friday while animal rights groups have openly opposed keeping elephants on display, the Brookfield Zoo is attempting to add another of the large mammals to its collection.

Carol Sodaro, Brookfield Zoo's associate curator of mammals, said elephants "are very social animals that live in large herds, with strong bonds and long social relationships with other elephants in the herd. It is important for them to interact with other elephants."

In an attempt to locate a companion for Joyce, 27, zoo officials have contacted the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

The Tribune said the need for an additional elephant followed the death of a female elephant at the zoo died who suffered from a congenital kidney defect.