Virginia Zoo needs another elephant to keep 2 it already has

NORFOLK, Va. (AP) - The Virginia Zoo is in need of another elephant by next year. If not, it may lose the two it already has.

Multiple media outlets report new criteria from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums requires zoos with elephants to house at least three of them.

According to the association, social interaction is an important part of elephants’ mental and physical health.

The Virginia Zoo must meet the standard by September 2016.

The zoo’s executive director Greg Bockheim says officials will come up with a plan in six to eight weeks.