Activists say ‘Nosey' the elephant deserves better home, protest plans for new zoo

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — An elephant is causing a controversy at a Kissimmee petting zoo.

Animal rights activists claim that the elephant, named Nosey, is being mistreated, so they are protesting the petting zoo owner's plans to build a new zoo behind the Gator Motel on U.S. 192.

The zoo owner, Patrick Clancy, said county and state officials have inspected his petting zoo several times, and have not had any complaints.

In July 2015, Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-AZ) sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture urging officials to re-evaluate the elephant and check for abuse. Rep. Alan Grayson (D-FL) signed the letter, along with 30 other members of congress.

Document: Copy of letter

Clancy said Nosey is well taken care of, and activists are not going to stop his plans to build the “Jungle Habitat Preserve.”

Clancy said he wants a natural zoo, with lots of land for the animals, but he's already taking heat about Nosey’s future.

"You know, there are people who look at the book, but don't read the book. You need to open the book before you criticize,” he said.

Clancy brought Nosey to his petting zoo to raise money and attract customers, but using Nosey has also attracted complaints from animal rights activists.

"It's heartbreaking when you see it every day, and we work full time, different shifts. We come and go, and we see it,” said Jody Breaud.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, or PETA, is demanding that the 34-year-old elephant be sent to a sanctuary.

The organization claims Nosey has been mistreated.

Activists also want to block Clancy from his project.

"I live in a mobile home. The elephant has a big stone barn, and I live in a plywood palace,” Hugo Liebel, the elephant’s owner.

The elephant's owner said people should come see Nosey in person before they criticize.

"If I did not rescue her, she would have been dead a long time ago,” Liebel said.

Clancy said the critics are not going to stop him.

"We are going to bring back this old attraction in Kissimmee, Florida, for the people of Kissimmee, Florida, and if people who don't like it--don't come," Clancy said.

The county has not found any problems at the petting zoo.

Channel 9 checked with state officials, but has not heard back.

Cox Media Group