Carol Buckley
Founder, President, and CEO of Elephant Aid International

Carol Buckley is an internationally recognized authority in the rescue, rehabilitation, and welfare of captive-held elephants. With nearly 50 years of experience, she has pioneered non-dominant management systems and holistic healthcare programs that prioritize elephant autonomy and well-being.

In 1995, Carol co-founded America’s first and largest natural habitat elephant sanctuary in Tennessee, creating a model of integrative medical care and trauma recovery for 23 elephants over 15 years. Driven by the global need for improved elephant welfare, she founded Elephant Aid International in 2010. Her work in Asia has led to a cultural shift in elephant management — freeing elephants from chains, retraining mahouts with gentler methods, and improving foot care practices, benefiting hundreds of elephants.

In 2016, Carol established her second sanctuary, Elephant Refuge North America (ERNA), in Attapulgus, GA. Spanning 850 acres, ERNA offers a peaceful haven for elephants retired from zoos and circuses, currently home to three residents, including Mundi, rescued after 35 years of solitude at a Puerto Rican zoo. Carol continues to work with governments and organizations worldwide, advocating for stronger protections and compassionate care for elephants in captivity.