Saint Louis Zoo Prepares to Transfer Resident Elephant
The zoo is hosting public farewell events this weekend before Raja moves to a new facility this fall.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Wildlife
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The Saint Louis Zoo is preparing to transfer Asian elephant Raja to a new facility this fall. The move is part of a national conservation program that will eventually bring an 18-year-old bull elephant named Samudra to the city in 2027.
Why it matters
These animal transfers help maintain genetically diverse elephant populations at accredited zoos, supporting a species that currently numbers fewer than 50,000 individuals in the wild.
The zoo is hosting farewell events for Raja this weekend, with activities running daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at River's Edge.
The players
Saint Louis Zoo
An accredited zoological park in St. Louis that participates in global species conservation programs.
Association of Zoos and Aquariums
A national organization that sets the standards for animal welfare and coordinates species survival plans across accredited zoos.
Oregon Zoo
An accredited zoological facility in Portland that currently houses the elephant Samudra.
The details
The relocation follows formal breeding recommendations from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. By coordinating transfers between accredited institutions, the program aims to create new breeding pairs and ensure the long-term health of the species through the birth of future calves.
Timeline
October 24-25, 2026: Farewell activities for Raja at River's Edge.
Fall 2026: Raja departs the Saint Louis Zoo.
2027: Samudra arrives at the Saint Louis Zoo.
The Home Front
This transfer adheres to the strategic breeding protocols managed by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Asian Elephant Species Survival Plan. The program dictates movement between zoos to prevent inbreeding and bolster the sustainability of captive populations.
Local families planning to see Raja before his move can visit the River's Edge exhibit this weekend. Check the official zoo schedule online to confirm event times for the final farewell weekend.
The takeaway
Zoo animal transfers are part of a long-term strategy to ensure the genetic health of endangered species in human care. If you plan to visit, prioritize arrival during the 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. window this weekend to participate in the scheduled farewell activities.
Further reading
Learn more about local conservation efforts in St. Louis Wildlife.
More information
Find the latest updates on the transition by visiting the Saint Louis Zoo news portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KBSI FOX23 News Cape Girardeau News | Paducah News.
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