Sorocaba Zoo begins preparations to transfer elephant Sandro

Preparations have begun for the transfer of Sandro, an elephant residing at the Quinzinho de Barros Municipal Zoo in Sorocaba, to the Elephant Sanctuary Brazil (SEB) in Chapada dos Guimarães, Mato Grosso.

A specialized transport crate has arrived at the zoo to begin the acclimation process. To ensure the animal's safety and well-being during the estimated 1,600-kilometer land journey, experts will use positive reinforcement and food to encourage Sandro to enter the ventilated and climate-controlled structure voluntarily.

The transfer follows a judicial order, though the City of Sorocaba has filed appeals to suspend the decision and keep the elephant at the zoo. Sandro has lived at the facility since 1982. The relocation is considered high-risk, as the journey is expected to take approximately two and a half days.