Portugal's Last Circus Elephant Gains 100kg
Julie, a 40-year-old elephant, has thrived in her new 400-hectare sanctuary in the Alentejo region, after being relocated from a circus
Julie, the last circus elephant in Portugal, has adapted to life in a new sanctuary in the Alentejo region, gaining 100kg in three months. The elephant, who was captured in Africa about 40 years ago, was relocated from the Victor Hugo Cardinali circus to the Pangea Sanctuary, which covers 400 hectares between Vila Viçosa and Alandroal, in the district of Évora.
The Pangea Sanctuary aims to provide a new home for elephants in need from zoos, circuses, and other places. Julie has free access to the sanctuary 24 hours a day, allowing her to make her own choices and move around as she pleases. One of her favourite pastimes is wallowing in mud pools.
Julie joined the Cardinali circus in 1988, and spent many years performing. However, in 2018, Portugal banned wild animals from circuses, with the law coming into force in 2024. This led to Julie's relocation to the Pangea Sanctuary, where she has begun to settle into her new home.
According to the sanctuary's manager, Julie was shy when she first arrived, but has since begun to trust and decide what she wants to do. The sanctuary's staff have reported that she has already put on weight and is now able to exercise and move around freely.
## Why it matters There are more than 600 elephants in captivity across Europe, and sanctuaries like Pangea play a crucial role in providing a safe and natural environment for these animals. Julie's story highlights the importance of providing elephants with the space and freedom they need to thrive. As she continues to adapt to her new home, Julie's story serves as a reminder of the need to protect and care for these majestic creatures.
The Pangea Sanctuary's work is significant, as it provides a new home for elephants in need. With Julie as its first resident, the sanctuary is setting an example for the care and rehabilitation of elephants in captivity. As the sanctuary continues to grow and provide a safe haven for more elephants, it is likely to have a positive impact on the welfare of these animals in Europe.
