The use of wild animals in circuses involves extensive travel, confinement, and training methods that compromise welfare. Many countries have banned or severely restricted wild animal performances, but the transition is ongoing.
Wild animals in circuses cannot meet their complex behavioral and social needs in touring environments. Elephants, lions, tigers, and bears kept for circus performance show chronic welfare deficits including stereotypies, aggression, and poor physical health. The trend toward complete bans represents one of the clearest victories of animal welfare advocacy, demonstrating that public education can shift social norms rapidly.