Welfare Science

Circus Animal Welfare and Phase-Out

Wild animal use in travelling circuses has been banned in many countries following welfare concerns, while performing animals remain in some contexts with ongoing debate about welfare standards.

Key Facts

England banned wild animals in travelling circuses from January 2020
Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland have similar legislation
Around 20 countries globally have banned wild animal circus acts
Training methods for performing animals historically involved punishment and coercion
Animals in circuses face stress from transport, public noise, and unnatural performance requirements

Welfare Considerations

Wild animal circus welfare concerns relate to transport stress, inadequate housing, and training methods. The phase-out of wild animal circuses in many countries reflects changing public values. Domestic animal use in circuses may continue where welfare can be assured with appropriate training methods.

What You Can Do

Support legislation banning wild animals in circuses where your country has not done so
Avoid attending any circus using wild animals as performers
Advocate for positive reinforcement training standards in any remaining animal performance contexts