Sandro the elephant adapts to new sanctuary after 44 years in zoo

Sandro, a 54-year-old Asian elephant, has successfully transitioned to the Elephant Sanctuary Brazil in Chapada dos Guimarães, Mato Grosso, following a 1,600-kilometer journey from Sorocaba, São Paulo.

After spending 44 years at the Quinzinho de Barros Municipal Zoo, Sandro's transfer was mandated by the São Paulo Court of Justice following legal disputes involving the Public Ministry and animal protection organizations. Advocates argued that the zoo's facilities were inadequate for the species' needs, particularly after the death of his companion, Haisa, in 2020.

One month after his arrival on September 18, sanctuary staff report that Sandro is adapting well. Observed behaviors include taking water and mud baths, exploring vegetation, and using branches to scratch himself. Raphael Bontempi Ferreira, president of the sanctuary, noted that the transition has been surprisingly smooth, stating it feels as though the elephant has always belonged there.