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Travelling Circuses In England Are Now Prohibited From Using Wild Animals

We don't need to watch Dumbo to understand that a lot of entertainment institutions are guilty of animal cruelty.

Zoos, production companies, and circuses are frequently in hot water for their treatment of wild animals and destruction of natural habitat.

Wild circus animals are nothing new.

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There are approximately 19 wild animals in travelling circuses across Britain as of 2018. This includes three camels, a raccoon, and several zebras.

Environment Secretary Michael Gove announced today that a new bill will ban the use of wild animals in circuses across the country.

The Wild Animals in Circuses Bill will make it illegal for circus operators in England to use wild animals in their acts.

"The use of wild animals in travelling circuses is outdated and unpopular, and this legislation will bring England into line with a long and increasing list of countries which have banned this practice."

"Travelling circuses are no place for wild animals in the 21st century."

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Gove explained in a statement that the ban follows other measures the government has taken to strengthen their position as a world leader on animal protection.

This includes a ban on ivory sales to protect elephants.

Unsplash | Justin Porter

Dr Chris Draper, Head of Animal Welfare & Captivity at the Born Free Foundation commented in support of the bill:

After years of waiting for this issue to be resolved, Born Free is delighted that Mr Gove will now bring this Bill forward.

This is certainly a step in the right direction.

Unsplash | Pauline Bernfeld

Legislation like The Wild Animals in Circuses Bill will change the lives of animals forever, and light the way for a UK-wide ban on the possession of wild animals someday in the future.

h/t: Lad Bible

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