Beloved Elephant Tonka humanely euthanized due to declining health
May 9, 2024; 11:48 a.m.

Tonka elephant at Zoo Knoxville. Image by Zoo Knoxville

KNOXVILLE – It is with great sadness that Zoo Knoxville announces that Tonka, a 46-year-old African elephant, was humanely euthanized on Wednesday, May 8, 2024.

Tonka was placed in hospice care earlier this week when it was determined that there were no further options to treat acute pain and swelling in his left front leg. Medications were no longer adequately managing the 15,000 pound elephant’s pain. When the condition of his leg began to deteriorate and his pain was no longer being effectively managed with medication, his quality of life reached a turning point. He was compassionately euthanized Wednesday morning. His caregivers that knew and loved him were by his side to ensure he went peacefully and comfortably.

At 46-years-old and 15,000 pounds, Tonka had the distinction of being one of the largest and oldest African elephants in North America. During his 43 years at Zoo Knoxville, he was an iconic ambassador and known for his easy-going nature and intelligence. Tonka had been training to prepare for a move to The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee while a barn was completed for him there but the rapid decline in his physical condition made it clear that a move would not be possible. His hospice plan ensured his final days were with the people he knew and trusted in a place that was familiar.

“We are heartbroken and grieving,” said Drew Rowan, interim president and CEO. “Tonka was beloved by our staff and our community and we are grateful for the compassion they have shown us. We were very committed to making sure Tonka left this world with all the dignity and love we could surround him with, and I hope that offers some comfort to everyone he touched.”