Frequently asked questions
You can find answers to our most frequently asked questions by searching on a keyword or category on the right.
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The RSPCA's position on circuses
The RSPCA opposes the use of all animals in circuses. Circus animals are often kept in close confinement in poor living conditions, forced to perform unnatural behaviours to a timetable. While being transported from site to site animals are exposed to human handling, noise, vibration, cage motion and confinement, all of which can cause considerable stress.
As part of the Animal Welfare Act, new regulations on the use of wild animals in circuses are being considered by the government. The previous government in England committed to introducing a ban on the use of certain non-domesticated (wild) species in travelling circuses, but over 94 percent of those who responded to their 2010 public consultation want to see a complete ban on all wild animals. The current government is in the process of reviewing these responses.
The RSPCA would like to see a ban on the use of all wild animals. You can add your support by lobbying your local Member of Parliament or your local Assembly Member.
Because of increasing public concern over the welfare of animals in circuses, a number of local authorities in the UK do not allow animal circuses to perform on council-owned land. You can find out your council's policy by contacting your local environmental health department. If your local authority has not banned animal circuses on council-owned land, you can write a letter expressing your concern to your local councillor.
In addition, if an animal circus is visiting your area you may also wish to raise the issue locally by writing to the editor of your local newspaper expressing your concerns.
Find out more about animals in circuses.
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