Flavia, the 'saddest elephant in the world,' has died after living in Spanish zoo for 43 years

Sad news for animal lovers around the world.

Flavia, who earned the title of "saddest elephant in the world" by animal rights activists, died last week after living in Spain's Cordoba Zoo for 43 years. The Indian elephant was taken from her herd at age 3 and kept in solitary confinement the entire time, without any other elephants.

Reports reveal the elephant had to be put down after months of deteriorating health. She collapsed in her exhibit on March 1 and was unable to stand back up. The zoo announced her death on Facebook, alongside pictures of the animal.

For years, activists had been lobbying for the animal to be moved to a sanctuary or even another zoo so she could be surrounded by her own species. PACMA was one of the organizations working to get her moved. "During all those years she has been alone and captive in the Cordoba Zoo," said president Silvia Barquero.

Elephants are highly social animals and travel in herds. Wild elephants can sometimes live until age 70. However, given Flavia's circumstances, reports agree that the elephant was most likely depressed, which contributed to her failing health.

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