Animals in circuses

We don't believe animals should be subjected to the conditions of circus life.  Regular transport, cramped and bare temporary housing, forced training and performance, loud noises and crowds of people are all typical and often unavoidable realities for the animals.

Scientific research has shown that travelling circus life has a very harmful effect on animal welfare for many species. Performing inappropriate tricks in the name of entertainment also does nothing to foster respect for animals. This is why we think circuses should not use animals, especially wild species.

Do circuses still use animals? 

Unfortunately, animals are still used in British circuses. An estimated 150-200 animals are currently held, and more than 30 of them are wild animals. These include elephants, zebras, lions, snakes, tigers, camels, a kangaroo and crocodiles.

At the moment, there’s no law to stop circuses using certain types of animals. Circus animals are protected by the Animal Welfare Act 2006, but the need for greater protection has been recognised by the UK government.

Will circuses be banned from using animals?

The government in England has promised to ban the use of certain non-domesticated (wild) species in travelling circuses, and a statement was made by Ben Bradshaw, MP, in the House of Commons in March 2006 proposing the ban. However, recent developments suggest the government may be backtracking on its promise.

In Wales, the power to ban wild animals in circuses lies with the Welsh Assembly Government (WAG).

What are we doing?

We’re campaigning against the use of wild animals in circuses and lobbying the UK government to ban their use, as other countries have already done.

What you can do

The government needs to know that many people feel the same way as us. 

Go to Give animals a voice and sign up to add your voice to the debate on whether circuses with animals really count as entertainment.