Over the years, there has been growing public disapproval about the use of wild animals in entertainment. This concern is shown by the impact of the film Blackfish and the decline in SeaWorld attendance after its release, the closing of the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, and the passage of statewide bans on the use of wild and/or exotic animals in traveling acts in several U.S. states. 

The public's desire for animal-free entertainment is so widespread that Ringling Brothers now plans to relaunch the circus in 2023 and will feature only human performers - a move FOUR PAWS applauds. 

Lions, tigers, bears, and elephants are wild animals – sensitive species whose needs as mammals no circus can meet. This inability for circuses to properly care for these animals has been recognized in over 40 countries around the world, where (some or all) wild animals have become prohibited for use in circuses and other traveling acts; in Canada, there are local bans on the use of animals in circuses in over 33 municipal jurisdictions.

In the U.S., there are currently eight states and over 150 localities (cities, towns, and counties) in 37 states that have passed various restrictions or bans involving the use of wild animals in circuses. 

U.S. Timeline

In 2016, Rhode Island banned the use of bullhooks, a cruel elephant training device resembling a fireplace poker.

In 2017, Illinois and New York banned the use of elephants in traveling shows. 

In 2018, New Jersey became the first state in the nation to ban the use of wild and exotic animals in traveling shows, and less than a week later Hawaii passed a similar groundbreaking rule. 

In 2019, California banned the use of all animals in circuses, except for dogs, cats, and domesticated horses.

In 2021, Colorado banned the use of elephants, big cats, bears, and other animals in circuses and other traveling shows.

In 2022, Kentucky banned the use of both endangered species in circuses and exotic animals in county fairs, including a ban on elephant rides.

In 2024, Massachusetts banned the use of elephants, big cats, primates, giraffes, and bears in traveling exhibits and shows.

Below, FOUR PAWS gives you an overview of U.S. states and other countries that have already passed restrictions or bans on the use of all or certain wild animals in circuses and traveling shows.