Illinois residents who want to continue to see elephants perform circus acts will continue to have options.
Officials with Circus World, a company with roots in the Ringling Bros., said they're committed to keeping elephants in its shows in Baraboo, Wisconsin.
The parent company of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus on Thursday announced plans to eliminate elephants from its circus performances by 2018. Feld Entertainment said 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 said Circus World has a great environment for the elephants and an exemplary record for keeping them safe.
O'Donnell said state and federal inspectors visit the circus regularly.
We are very committed to having elephants here with us as long as we are able to do that," O'Donnell said. "We feel we have a great facility, a great environment for animals."
