Born Free is convinced the circus is no place for wild animals. The stresses of frequent transport, the inadequacy of minimal housing space, the exploitative displays in the ring, and frequent accusations of abuse; it is clear that life in a circus brings compromises and cruelty to wild animals.
In recent years, Born Free has been involved in the rescue and relocation of several lions that we believe originated from the circus industry. These lions are now in safe hands, in lifetime care at our world-class sanctuary in South Africa. However, these lions are the lucky few: too many wild animals remain in use in circuses in France, including elephants, tigers, hippos, zebras and monkeys.