Portugal's last circus elephant adapts to Alentejo sanctuary life

Portugal's last circus elephant has begun settling into a new sanctuary in the Alentejo region in southern Portugal, Euronews reported. The elephant, named Julie, arrived almost four months ago as the first resident of the Pangea Sanctuary. [1]

The facility spans 400 hectares located between Vila Viçosa and Alandroal in the district of Évora, according to Euronews. Sanctuary workers noted that Julie has already gained 100 kilograms since moving to the site. [1]

Sanctuary manager and elephant keeper Johnny N told Euronews that Julie was initially shy upon her arrival. He stated that she began to gain trust after about a week and now makes her own choices about navigating the extensive enclosure trails. [1]

Portugal joined the European Union in 1986 and has been part of the Eurozone since 1999. The nation maintains an economy centered on services, tourism, and manufacturing exports. [3]