Denmark has confirmed plans to officially retire its last four circus elephants.
The country has announced it will spend almost £1m (11m kroner) to give the elephants - named Ramoline, Lara, Djunga and Jenny - a proper retirement, amid their plans to ban the use of wild animals in circuses.
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Three of the elephants worked at Circus Arena, while the fourth was owned by Cikus Trapez.
Benny Berdino, who worked at Circus Arena, said that he was "sad to have to say goodbye," to the beautiful creatures, but was happy they were getting a good retirement.
Animal Protection Denmark will ensure the wild animals' safety until an appropriate home for them is found, according to The Associated Press.
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There is currently no immediate plans for where they will live next, but applicants who wish to care for them should be able to offer "a timely takeover and proper welfare".
Currently in Denmark, elephants, sea lions and zebras are allowed to perform in circuses.
However, the elephants' retirement comes as the country is set to introduce its ban on wild animals in circuses later this year, according to their Food and Fisheries Minister, Mogens Jensen.
More than 40 countries have recently announced they're also implementing the ban, after agreeing that the practice is inhumane.
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England was one of many to pledge the ban earlier this year, in a move announced by Michael Gove, who was then Environmental Secretary.
The Wild Animals in Circuses Bill will mean that circus operators in England will no longer be able to use wild animals as part of a travelling circus.
At the time, Gove said: "Travelling circuses are no place for wild animals in the 21st century and I am pleased that this legislation will put an end to this practice for good."
Well done, Denmark. Whose next?
Featured Image Credit: PA