Ringling Brothers to eliminate elephants from circus; Circus World in Baraboo committed to keeping them

BARABOO (AP) — Circus World, with its roots in the Ringling Bros., says it's committed to keeping elephants in its shows in Baraboo.

The parent company of Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus plans to eliminate elephants from its circus performances by 2018. Feld Entertainment says some cities and counties have passed "anti-circus" and "anti-elephant" ordinances, making touring difficult with changing regulations.

Baraboo was home to the Ringling Brothers when they began their first tour as a circus in 1884. Today, Circus World continues big top shows with performers from all over the world. Executive director Scott O'Donnell says Circus World has a great environment for the elephants and an exemplary record for keeping them safe.

O'Donnell tells WKOW-TV state and federal inspectors visit the circus regularly.



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