We are thrilled to announce that Pangea is officially the proud owner of a thousand-acre reserve in Alentejo, Portugal. The deeds were finally transferred last month, and so work can now begin to transform this former cattle farm into a sanctuary for elephants and a haven for wildlife.
The site is blessed with diverse habitat, from rolling grassland through to scrub and woodland. There are four dams fed by a natural spring and stream, meaning there will be plenty of water for elephant bathing and drinking as well as sustaining wild flora and fauna. Despite the remote location, it falls outside Portugal’s designated protected areas which means there are fewer restrictions on construction or accommodating elephants. The estate is also in an area of low fire risk and there are no public roads on the property’s boundaries.
Thanks go to Julia Davies of ‘We Have the POWER’, and her co-lenders, including Nic Humphries, whose philanthropic loans catalysed the purchase of the land. We simply could not have proceeded without their support, and we will be working hard to meet the repayments so that other projects waiting for their help can benefit as we have.
Thank you also to Lady Annabel Goldsmith and Elephant Family, amongst others, for their donations towards the purchase of the land, as well as to the Born Free Foundation, Fondation Brigitte Bardot, and Olsen Animal Trust for their unwavering support and generosity. Portugal’s leading law firm, PLMJ, also deserves a special mention, having provided open-ended pro bono support throughout this very lengthy process.
As we turn our attention to the first phase of development, we are appealing for donations so that we can secure vehicles, fencing, and our first elephant barn. If you can help us please do get in touch or donate online. You can also sign up to our newsletter below. Thank you so much for any help your support.
“By restoring biodiversity to areas degraded by cattle grazing and eucalyptus cultivation, Pangea will increase the site’s ecological value for the benefit of both resident elephants and native wildlife. We are proud to support this unique, progressive initiative which prioritises nature whilst also providing a solution for captive elephants in need.”
Julie Davies - We Have The Power