Dispute over the transfer of the elephant from the former Beto Carrero World zoo has a new chapter; understand
The future of Baby, an Asian elephant residing at Beto Carrero World for nearly thirty years, is now the center of a legal dispute regarding her transfer to a zoo in São Paulo versus a sanctuary in Mato Grosso.
The Asian elephant named Baby has been a resident at Beto Carrero World for around thirty years, but her future has become a point of contention that is now being decided in the courts. With the zoo area in the amusement park being decommissioned, the management has proposed transferring Baby to a zoo in São Paulo. However, animal welfare organizations argue that it would be more beneficial for her to be sent to a sanctuary located in Mato Grosso.
The legal battle over Baby's fate has been ongoing since 2024, and a recent decision by the 3rd Chamber of Public Law at the Court of Justice confirmed that she will remain at the park in Penha until a final resolution is reached regarding her permanent relocation. This update highlights the complexities involved in the judicial process as it pertains to animal welfare, public opinion, and the responsibilities of wildlife parks.
Supporters of the sanctuary move, represented by the organization Princípio Animal, emphasized the importance of considering Baby’s wellbeing and natural behavior, arguing that a sanctuary would provide a more suitable environment than a traditional zoo. The Court's exploration of a possible temporary relocation before reaching a final decision reflects an ongoing commitment to the debate over ethical treatment of zoo animals and the legal frameworks governing such cases within Brazil.