Scotland announces circus ban for wild animals

Wild Welfare welcomes Scotland’s announcement that they will look to introduce legislation to ban wild animals in travelling circuses.

Wild Welfare does not believe that circus environments can properly provide for either the physical or mental welfare needs of wild animals. In response to the news, Wild Welfare’s director Georgina Allen said: “We’re thrilled at Scotland’s recent decision. Wild animals have no place in the circus environment.

“The Wild Welfare team works hard to ensure captive wild animals are not exploited for entertainment in any capacity, by working with zoos and captive animal facilities to educate them on appropriate animal interactions. This news about a ban in Scotland’s circuses further recognises that a wild animal’s welfare needs cannot be met in a situation where they have to perform tricks or stunts.”

Wild Welfare celebrated two bans on the use of animals for entertainment, when both Hanoi Zoo and Surabaya Zoo agreed in February of this year to end their animal performances.

Wild Welfare hopes this positive animal welfare move from Scotland urges the UK government to make the same steps and that a ban can soon be celebrated in England.

~ENDS~

Notes to Editors

For more information or interview requests please contact Wild Welfare on communications@wildwelfare.org. Wild Welfare is a global organisation committed to improving animal welfare standards in captive wild animal facilities. Its mission is to partner with zoo associations, accredited zoos and aquariums, zoo professionals and leading international animal welfare organizations in identifying and improving the conditions of captive wild animals kept under circumstances of severe distress.

Wild Welfare was established in 2012 and has rapidly established itself as an internationally recognised hub in zoo animal welfare reform, forming effective collaborative relationships with a number of animal welfare NGOs, reputable universities and professional bodies.

Wild Welfare’s vision is to end the suffering of captive wild animals around the world and ensure that full and sustainable protection is given to all animals in human care.

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