Lucy did not have an easy life. When she lived in circuses, she had several babies, but was never able to care for any of them, because they were taken away right after birth.

In 2006, she was living at the Beto Carrero circus/zoo in Santa Catarina and was transferred to the Sanctuary. She arrived at the Institute pregnant and, after a few weeks, she was forced to return to the circus due to a court ruling. With the reversal of that decision, Lucy was finally transferred permanently to the Sanctuary and, in 2007, she arrived there with her newborn son, Noel.

From that moment on, her life changed forever, especially because she could raise Noel. Despite some initial difficulties, Lucy proved from the very beginning to be an exemplary mother, marked by serenity and intelligence — traits that define her personality.

In the first few months, she did not produce enough milk, and Noel needed supplements and special care from the veterinary team. Lucy not only understood the situation but also trusted the professionals to care for her baby when needed, knowing it was best for him at that time.

The difficulties passed, Lucy fully embraced motherhood, and since then she has lived with Noel, Yuri, who became his “adoptive father” and Lucas and Matheus, two of her older sons, who had been separated after birth. She is the dominant female of the group — a natural leader, protective and a peacemaker in conflicts.

Everyone enjoys her company. Her sons respect and obey her, especially during tense moments within the group. She is very intelligent, experienced, and calm—as long as she is not disturbed. But when that happens, she knows very well how to assert her authority.

Lucy’s group