Sandro the elephant transferred to Brazilian sanctuary after 40 years in captivity

Sandro, a 54-year-old Asian elephant, has been transferred from the Quinzinho de Barros Municipal Zoo in Sorocaba to the Santuário de Elefantes Brasil in Chapada dos Guimarães, Mato Grosso. The move follows a long legal battle regarding the animal's welfare and a decision by the São Paulo Court of Justice.

Sandro, who was captured in Asian forests in 1971 and spent decades in circuses and captivity, traveled 1,615 kilometers in a custom transport crate to reach the sanctuary. He is the first male to be hosted at the facility, which currently houses six females. To prevent captive breeding, the sanctuary will use protective barriers to allow the animals to interact through scent and sight while maintaining separation.

Following the transfer, one of Sandro's long-time caretakers, Sérgio Domingues, honored their bond by getting a tattoo depicting their time together. Reports from the sanctuary indicate that Sandro has adapted quickly, being the first animal to exit his transport crate and explore the new environment.