She has four limbs, expressive eyes and likes to walk through greenery in New York City.Happy is an Asian elephant.But can she also be considered a person?That question was before New York's highest court this week.The case involves the Nonhuman Rights Project (NRP) and the Bronx Zoo.Supporters at the Nonhuman Rights Project say Happy is an independent being with complex thinking abilities.They want her moved from what they say is a prison-like space she lives in at the zoo.They argue that she should have that right under law as "a person."The Bronx Zoo, where Happy lives, argues Happy is neither illegally imprisoned nor a person.The zoo says Happy is a well-cared-for elephant "respected as the magnificent creature she is."Happy has lived at the Bronx Zoo for 45 years.The state Court of Appeals heard arguments over whether she should be released through a special proceeding, known as a habeas corpus proceeding.It is a way for people to fight illegal imprisonment.
