WHY BRAZIL?
QUITE SIMPLY, THE DECISION TO START A SANCTUARY IN BRAZIL CAME DOWN TO NEED AND READINESS.
Offering a Lifelong Home and Compassionate Care to Elephants in Need
Following careful analysis, Brazil was chosen as the location for GSE’s initial project, to ensure that the growing number of elephants displaced by ongoing bans on performing animals across South America would be guaranteed compassionate care in an appropriate habitat.
We wanted to offer the same healing we witnessed in the elephants we cared
for at sanctuary in the US to elephants in another part of the globe.
➤ 5 countries in South American have passed legislation to prevent the use of performing elephants.
➤ 11 states in Brazil have passed legislation against the use of performing animals.
➤ National progressive legislation is drafted and waiting to be put into action in Brazil.
➤ No existing sanctuary for elephants in all of Latin America
➤ Numerous zoos shutting down their elephant exhibits
➤ The Brazilian government wanted a solution in place before passing a national ban.
➤ Culturally, Brazil is ready for change. As the general public has become educated about the harsh reality of circus elephants, they have raised a voice for positive change.
➤ Ideal climate enabling elephants to remain outdoors year-round
35 of South America's Captive Elephants Live in Brazil
Brazil has an estimated:
- 35 resident elephants
- 18 live in primarily substandard zoo facilities, while another 17 are known to be traveling with circus or already sequestered to a remote life of chains and severe confinement.
There are approximately 50 captive elephants total in South America. Because of Brazil’s central location, we are able to provide sanctuary to elephants from surrounding countries, offering solace to elephants throughout the continent.
Brazil's Diverse Land & Habitats
One of the most fundamental components to developing a sound, holistic sanctuary is the land it is built upon. Brazil’s incredible diversity and widely available rural habitat offers a vast spectrum of possibilities. To provide elephants a life that allows and encourages them to express naturalistic behaviors, it is vital to start with land that meets their inherent needs.
Varied Flora And Biodiversity
are imperative to maintain a proper diet for an elephant. Elephants can graze for up to 20 hours each day, eating upwards of 150 pounds of vegetation. The only way to meet this need is by giving them access to have a variety of grasses, vines, shrubs, bushes, and trees.
Natural Bodies Of Water
are essential, going beyond the necessity for drinking water. Anyone who has seen an elephant bathe knows it is something they relish. Water originating from multiple sources, in different locations, encourages sustained exploration and plays a role in the autonomy necessary for elephants to heal.
Topography
is yet another major consideration. Varied terrain generally promotes diverse vegetation, but it also encourages dynamic muscle use. Elephants are incredibly adept at climbing hillsides, aiding the development of strength and balance and assisting in the reversal of joint disease that develops from decades with minimal exercise and standing on unnaturally hard surfaces.
Long-term Sustainability
is key when developing sanctuary for elephants. This means examining parameters that go beyond purely the needs of the elephants. Considerations for land preservation, the impact, if any, on native plant and animal species, soil quality, sustainability of forest and grassland, along with proximity to veterinary care and stores for supplies are all taken into account.
