Mission

Using animals in circuses is an unnecessary and inhumane practice that's harmful to both the animals and the public. Inspection reports from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) continue to reveal mistreatment and neglect of wild animals forced to perform unnatural "tricks" to entertain crowds.

The conservation claims made by many circuses are merely veiled attempts to justify the exploitation of animals for commercial gain. Endangered animals born in circus "conservation" programs will never be released into the wild — they are doomed, instead, to life in captivity.

The More Beautiful Wild campaign, together with Born Free USA united with API's dynamic circus campaign and grassroots activist network, will work to end the exploitation and suffering of wild animals used in circus through:

• Public education about the quality of life, training and transportation methods, myths about conservation, and the inherent dangers that exist by having wild and exotic animals in traveling exhibitions and performances.

• Passage of federal, state, and local laws aimed at prohibiting use of wild and exotic animals in circuses.