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Brazil Suspends New Elephant Intakes at Mato Grosso Sanctuary After Two Deaths

An inquiry is under way to assess protocols and preliminary necropsy findings.

Overview

  • The Mato Grosso environment secretariat imposed a 60‑day pause on new admissions on Dec. 23, while routine care for resident elephants continues.
  • Ibama opened an investigation and, after a technical visit, said the deaths were not attributable to mistreatment or improper handling.
  • The sanctuary calls the order preventive, says its licenses remain valid, and has 60 days to provide requested documentation to state authorities.
  • Preliminary findings for Kenya cite severe osteomyelitis, chronic joint damage, and signs consistent with advanced tuberculosis alongside long‑term captivity-related conditions.
  • Early necropsy results for Pupy indicate about 40% lung compromise from an amoebic infection, with digestive protozoa and severe gastritis also reported.