Viola the elephant gained global attention seven weeks ago when she briefly escaped while being bathed in an enclosure at the back of the Butte Civic Center.
A video of her stroll down Harrison Avenue, veering left to a grassy yard past Lucky Lil’s Casino, captured by a passerby, went viral.
Various news outlets and social media platforms shared the video, with The New York Times and the British Broadcasting Corporation also reporting on her failed escape.
Viola’s escape from her leaser, the Jordan World Circus, led to outrage from many, including officials from PETA.
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Few days after the incident, a PETA official informed the USDA about Viola’s escape in Butte. The USDA cited the elephant’s owner, Carson & Barnes Circus, for negligence.
PETA’s Captive Animal Welfare director called for the revocation of Carson & Barnes’ license.
Carson & Barnes Circus, in business since 1937, has a history of USDA citations, with over 100 previous instances. The recent citation remains unanswered by the circus.
PETA highlighted the inconsistency in USDA rulings and the leniency of citations, calling for stronger enforcement against circus animal abuse.
Despite plans for retirement, Viola has been touring with the Jordan World Circus and faced mistreatment with a bullhook in Centralia, Washington.
Viola’s previous escape attempts and injuries, along with her age surpassing the average lifespan of captive Asian elephants, raise concerns for her well-being.
PETA emphasizes the need to educate the public about circus animal abuses and calls for a halt to supporting circuses that exploit animals.
