Now that the COVID-19 pandemic appears to be subsiding, circuses are going back on the road with elephants, big cats and other animals.
Former
circus elephant Gypsy in her habitat at ARK 2000.
When the Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus folded its big
top forever in May 2017, many people believed it was the end of
circuses with wild animal acts. We only wish that were true. Now
that the COVID-19 pandemic appears to be subsiding, circuses are
going back on the road with elephants, big cats and other animals.
Traveling shows include the Carden International Circus, Culpepper
and Merriweather Circus, Tarzan Zerbini Circus, and Loomis Brothers
Circus. Over the years these circuses have failed to meet minimum
federal standards for the care of animals under the Animal Welfare
Act. Citations range from failure to provide adequate veterinary
care to the improper handling of animals, and failure to provide
such basics as sufficient space, safe enclosures and proper
nutrition. Some circus exhibitors, like Carson & Barnes and Franzen
Bros., also rent out captive wild animals to other circuses.
Sadly, there are at least 20 elephants performing in circuses in the
U.S. Many of them exhibit concerning signs of physical ailments,
such as abnormal gaits that often signal foot and/or joint
disorders. (Foot disease and arthritis are the leading reasons for
euthanizing captive elephants.) Still, they are made to perform and
give rides. Big cats spend prolonged periods of time in cramped
cages that limit movement and the ability to avoid conflict with
other cats, subjecting them to potential injury and death. Physical
problems include obesity, cracked foot pads, and wounds. Both
elephants and big cats are controlled through dominance and fear,
and they display abnormal repetitive behaviors that are indicative
of stress and poor welfare, such as swaying in elephants and pacing
in big cats.
PAWS cares for three elephants and an African lion who came to us from circuses.
All of these animals have a new life at PAWS, roaming large habitats nestled in the oak tree-dotted, rolling hills of our ARK 2000 sanctuary. They enjoy privacy, safety, and a peaceful, yet dynamic, environment that allows them to express their innate behaviors.
Former circus lion Camba relaxes in her habitat at ARK 2000.
People often wonder why sanctuaries are not approached to take
elephants or big cats from circuses. The truth is that circuses
seldom do the right thing and allow the animals to live out the rest
of their lives in a better place, away from traveling, performances,
and noisy crowds.
Fortunately, local and state laws continue to be passed that ban the
use of wild animals in traveling shows. But more are needed! Be sure
to check out our newsletter item (below) on state legislation
involving captive wild animals. If a bill has been introduced in
your state, please take action to support it!