Rehoming an Elephant is Complex

With the upcoming arrival of the first elephant at Pangea, we wanted to share some insight into the complex process and unique set of challenges with rehoming an elephant. Their size is one part of it, but just as important is their intelligence and sensitivity to change. Even elephants who have lived in captivity for many years and are used to human intervention can find new environments and unfamiliar routines difficult. For this reason, relocation is a gradual process that begins well in advance of the actual move.

Food is often placed inside and around the training crate to encourage interest and create positive experiences.

Positive Reinforcement & Crate Training

A key part of this preparation is positive reinforcement training, which sits at the core of the Protected Contact Method. This approach is based on trust and cooperation. Instead of using pressure or control, it encourages elephants to be willing participants in their own care through rewards, repetition, and clear communication. This method is now widely used in modern elephant care. Zoos and sanctuaries that follow protected contact have shown that elephants trained in this way are more relaxed during veterinary procedures and transport. Research has also found that elephants are more likely to participate in routine care when they are given choice and are rewarded for their involvement.

Crate training is one of the most significant steps in preparing an elephant for travel. The crate will be the elephant’s space for the duration of the journey, so it needs to feel familiar and safe. Depending on the distance, an elephant may spend many hours inside it, which makes early and careful preparation vital.

Training begins by placing a crate within the elephant’s enclosure weeks or even months before the move. This allows the elephant to approach and explore it on their own terms. There is no expectation or pressure to enter. Instead, the space is introduced gradually, often with food placed inside and around it to encourage interest. Over time, the elephant begins to associate the crate with positive experiences, which helps reduce stress when it comes time for relocation.

There is no pressure or expectation for her to enter. Kariba is allowed the space and freedom to explore the crate on her own terms.

Safe Transport to Pangea

Alongside crate familiarisation, elephants are also trained in behaviours that support their care and safety throughout the journey. This can include lifting their feet for inspection, allowing keepers to guide their movement, and becoming comfortable with equipment used during transport. By introducing these step by step and pairing them with rewards, they become part of a routine the elephant understands. Similar methods have been used in relocations to sanctuaries in Brazil and the United States, where training based on trust and consistency helped support the elephants throughout the process.

For Kariba, the first elephant to arrive at Pangea, moving from a zoo enclosure in Belgium to a sanctuary environment in Portugal will bring changes in surroundings, people, climate, and daily routine. By taking the time to prepare her through positive reinforcement, caretakers are helping Kariba feel more at ease with each step of the journey and settle more comfortably into her new home. We will continue to share updates as she progresses in her travel training.

Author: Wade Million & Katy Lana Hall