WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Animal welfare groups are asking the federal government to give the public more time to discuss Sedgwick County Zoo’s request to receive six new elephants.

Lawyer for the Animal Legal Defense Fund Carney Anne Nasser says the month the government has allowed for public comments isn’t enough time.

The Wichita Eagle reports that Nasser’s group requested the delay on behalf of other animal activist groups. They oppose the import because they believe African elephants do not belong in zoos as a migratory, social species.

An extended period of discussion would delay the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s decision to approve the importation of the elephants from Swaziland.

Sedgwick County Zoo Director Mark Reed says waiting for the decision’s approval until at least late January could put off the planned Memorial Day weekend opening of the elephant exhibit.