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The Happy Pod: Portugal’s last circus elephant rehomed

Global News Podcast · July 18, 2026

The Happy Pod: Portugal’s last circus elephant rehomed artwork

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The Happy Pod: Portugal’s last circus elephant rehomed

Global News Podcast

For 40 years, an elephant named Julie performed as part of the Victor Hugo Cardinali circus in Portugal. But after a law change banning wild animals for entertainment, Julie has now been given a new life in a dedicated sanctuary. She is the first elephant to begin her retirement at the 400-hectare site in Alentejo in southern Portugal, run by the UK-based charity Pangea Trust. Staff say Julie has adjusted very well to her new home, and is enjoying splashing around in the mud. Also: A mysterious monkey with orange lips discovered deep in the forests of the Democratic Republic of the Congo is confirmed as a new species. A look back at the heartwarming moments of the FIFA World Cup that resonated with both fans and those not so keen on football. We meet Kenya's ''Eco Mammas'', a group of women leading vital marine conservation efforts. Plus the teenage pianist Freya Terris who made history by passing a highly technical piano exam using only her left hand. Presenter: Chantal Hartle Music: Iona Hampson (Photo:Julie the African elephant arrives at Pangea elephant sanctuary in Portugal. Credit: Pangea Elephant Sanctuary)

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For 40 years, an elephant named Julie performed as part of the Victor Hugo Cardinali circus in Portugal. But after a law change banning wild animals for entertainment, Julie has now been given a new life in a dedicated sanctuary. She is the first elephant to begin her retirement at the 400-hectare site in Alentejo in southern Portugal, run by the UK-based charity Pangea Trust. Staff say Julie has adjusted very well to her new home, and is enjoying splashing around in the mud. Also: A mysterious monkey with orange lips discovered deep in the forests of the Democratic Republic of the Congo is confirmed as a new species. A look back at the heartwarming moments of the FIFA World Cup that resonated with both fans and those not so keen on football. We meet Kenya's ''Eco Mammas'', a group of women leading vital marine conservation efforts. Plus the teenage pianist Freya Terris who made history by passing a highly technical piano exam using only her left hand. Presenter: Chantal Hartle Music: Iona Hampson (Photo:Julie the African elephant arrives at Pangea elephant sanctuary in Portugal. Credit: Pangea Elephant Sanctuary)

Published
July 18, 2026
Status
active
GUID hash
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Archive key
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Archive id
entry_b7c9b7415e23ecba1ce582f47294