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Elephant Sanctuaries That Inspire Us

Elephant Sanctuaries That Inspire Us

At Pangea, we believe in creating wild spaces that mirror the biological diversity of native ecosystems. As we work toward establishing our own elephant sanctuary in Portugal, we’re inspired by the incredible work being done by sanctuaries around the world. These pioneering havens have set the standard for compassionate care, rehabilitation, and conservation.

In this blog, we’re spotlighting some of the most inspiring elephant sanctuaries across the globe. From their innovative approaches to the tireless efforts of their teams, these sanctuaries serve as a guiding light for our mission. Join us as we celebrate their achievements and share the values they embody – values that resonate deeply with our vision for Portugal.

Let’s explore the sanctuaries that are leading the way.

 

The Elephant Sanctuary, Tennessee, USA

The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee was established in 1995 and has since welcomed 33 elephants, with 12 residents currently calling it home. Spanning over 3,060 acres of protected land, the Sanctuary offers individualised care, herd companionship, and a peaceful place for elephants to live out their lives.

In addition to its sanctuary work, the organisation strives to raise awareness about the complex needs of elephants and the challenges they face in the wild. As elephants age, their needs evolve, and the Sanctuary collaborates with other elephant facilities to ensure the ongoing health and well-being of each resident.

With room to welcome more, The Elephant Sanctuary remains dedicated to offering a safe refuge for elephants in need and advocating for their protection worldwide.

For more information, visit www.elephants.com

  

Photo credits: The Elephant Sanctuary, Tennessee

 

PAWS, California, USA

The Performing Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) rescues and provides sanctuary to abused, abandoned, and retired captive wildlife, while promoting the highest standards of care for all animals in captivity. Founded in 1984 by former Hollywood animal trainer Pat Derby and Ed Stewart, PAWS operates three sanctuaries in Northern California, where animals rescued from the exotic animal and performing animal trades can live in peace and dignity.

For over 25 years, PAWS has been at the forefront of efforts to protect performing and exotic animals, investigating cases of abuse, documenting cruelty, and assisting in legal actions to end animal suffering.

At the ARK 2000 sanctuary in Galt, California, PAWS provides a natural habitat for over a dozen elephants, including both Asian and African species. These elephants enjoy rolling hills, trees, and lakes, with 24/7 expert care, a wholesome diet, and specialised veterinary treatment. PAWS is committed to offering these elephants a life of comfort and care, free from exploitation, while advocating for the welfare of all captive wildlife.

For more information, visit www.pawsweb.org

   

Photo credits: PAWS, California

 

Global Sanctuary for Elephants, Brazil

Global Sanctuary for Elephants (GSE) offers expansive, open spaces, the companionship of a herd, and environments that stimulate both the physical and mental well-being of elephants rehomed from captivity. GSE envisions a future where all captive elephants receive the care and autonomy they deserve and works with organisations worldwide to bring about that change.

Founded in 2013, GSE initially focused on addressing the growing crisis facing captive elephants in South America. However, it soon became clear that this issue was global in scope.

Elephant Sanctuary Brazil, part of GSE’s network, currently provides lifelong care to five elephants: Maia, Rana, Mara, Bambi, and Guillermina. These elephants live in a dedicated habitat for Asian female elephants. The sanctuary is designed to house elephants of both species and genders, with separate habitats for each species and males housed separately from females to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. GSE continues to lead efforts to improve the lives of captive elephants worldwide, advocating for their care, autonomy, and natural living conditions.

For more information, visit www.globalelephants.org

Photo credits: GSE, Brazil

 

Elephant Refuge North America, USA 

Located in Attapulgus, Georgia, Elephant Refuge North America (ERNA) spans 850 acres of rolling hills, pastures, forests, lakes, and streams, offering an ideal environment where elephants retired from zoos and circuses can regain their natural behaviours and form meaningful bonds with other elephants and their caregivers. The refuge can accommodate up to ten elephants, and currently cares for three residents.

At ERNA, the elephants’ needs come first. Operating under a true sanctuary philosophy, ERNA is closed to the public but offers educational opportunities through live-streaming video cameras placed throughout the habitat. These cameras allow people to observe the elephants in their natural environment, ensuring privacy while providing valuable insights into elephant behaviour.

Each elephant at ERNA receives individualised care, tailored to their past experiences and emotional needs. The elephants have the freedom to choose their activities and companions, with staff supporting them in forming relationships and developing social skills at their own pace. ERNA is committed to providing a life of peace, autonomy, and healing for each elephant in its care.

For more information, visit www.elephantaidinternational.org/projects/elephant-refuge-north-america

Photo credits: Elephant Refuge North America

 

Elephant Haven, France

The Elephant Haven sanctuary, based in the South West of France, provides a permanent home for elephants retired from zoos and circuses. As more European countries ban wild animals in circuses, there is an increasing need for safe havens for elephants, many of which cannot be returned to their countries of origin. 

Elephant Haven’s mission is to offer elephants a place for life, focusing on their resocialisation and rehabilitation. The sanctuary also aims to develop educational programs that promote understanding of elephants’ behaviour, both in captivity and in the wild. Additionally, Elephant Haven fosters awareness of local flora and fauna, encouraging a deeper connection to nature and respect for the environment.

Currently, Elephant Haven cares for two residents—Delhi and Gandhi—who are receiving the individualised care they need to heal and thrive. With its focus on rehabilitation, education, and environmental awareness, Elephant Haven plays a vital role in raising consciousness about the plight of captive elephants in Europe and the importance of sanctuary care.

For more information, visit www.elephanthaven.com

Photo credits: Elephant Haven

 

Daphne Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Kenya

The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) is one of Africa’s oldest and most respected wildlife conservation organisations. Founded 45 years ago by Dr. Dame Daphne Sheldrick in honour of her late husband, David Sheldrick, SWT is renowned for its pioneering Orphans’ Project—the world’s first and most successful elephant orphan rescue and rehabilitation program.

Driven by a deep passion for Kenya’s wilderness, SWT is dedicated to protecting wildlife and preserving vital habitats in East Africa. The organisation works tirelessly to secure safe havens for wildlife through the management and protection of key ecosystems, focusing on long-term conservation efforts.

Dr. Daphne Sheldrick, an internationally recognised expert on the care of infant elephants and rhinos, revolutionised wildlife rehabilitation by developing the first successful milk formula and husbandry techniques for raising orphaned, milk-dependent animals.

With a rich family legacy in wildlife conservation, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust continues to lead efforts to safeguard Kenya’s wildlife, providing lifelong care for orphans and ensuring the preservation of natural habitats for generations to come.

For more information, visit www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org

Photo credits: The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

 

Boon Lott Elephant Sanctuary, Thailand

Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary (BLES) is a rescue and sanctuary located in Sukhothai, Thailand, dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing home for elephants in need. BLES focuses on rescuing elephants from abuse and exploitation, offering them a peaceful environment where they can regain their natural instincts and relearn social behaviours.

At BLES, elephants live in a natural, open environment that encourages exploration and socialisation with their herd. The sanctuary prioritises the well-being of each elephant, allowing them the freedom to engage in natural behaviours such as foraging, grazing, swimming, and scratching—instincts that were often denied in their previous lives.

In addition to caring for its own elephants, BLES supports local elephant owners, offering advice and assistance to those who may lack the resources to care for their animals. The sanctuary is also deeply embedded in the local community, providing employment and housing to several mahouts and their families.

Currently, BLES is home to eleven resident elephants, each receiving individualised care and attention. Through its work, BLES aims to raise awareness about the plight of elephants and promote sustainable, compassionate practices for both elephants and their human caretakers.

For more information, visit www.blesele.org

Photo credits: Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary

 

Elephant Nature Park, Thailand

Elephant Nature Park (ENP) is a leading elephant rescue and rehabilitation centre located in Northern Thailand. Founded by renowned elephant rights advocate, Saengduean Chailert, or “Lek,” ENP is Asia’s first ethical elephant sanctuary.

The sanctuary is home to over 100 elephants, many of whom were rescued by the Save Elephant Foundation from abusive situations such as street begging, elephant rides, and circus performances. These elephants often suffer from both physical and psychological trauma. At ENP, they are given a safe, peaceful environment to heal and live free from exploitation.

The park’s residents include blind, crippled, orphaned, and senior elephants, each of whom receives individualised care. The sanctuary prioritises the elephants’ well-being, allowing them to live naturally, surrounded by lush landscapes, and providing them with the freedom to interact with other elephants and rediscover their natural behaviours.

ENP is committed to promoting elephant welfare and advocating for ethical, cruelty-free elephant tourism in Thailand and beyond.

For more information, visit www.elephantnaturepark.org

Photo credits: Elephant Nature Park

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