Sudden Death of Riva, Chester Zoo Elephant

Concerns are rising over the well-being of Happy, a 53-year-old elephant at the Bronx Zoo, who has been absent from public view for nearly six weeks. Animal rights activists fear that her unusual seclusion may indicate mental or physical distress, despite the zoo's assurances that she is fine. Meanwhile, Chester Zoo is mourning the unexpected death of Riva, a four-year-old Asian elephant, who died during a routine diagnostic procedure following blood tests that revealed anomalies. Riva's death comes just a month after the passing of her mother, Sundara, intensifying the emotional toll on the zoo staff and the conservation community. Zoo officials are awaiting test results to determine the cause of Riva's death, expressing heartbreak over the loss of such a beloved animal. Both incidents highlight ongoing concerns about the health and living conditions of elephants in captivity.