Our commitment to conservation.
In addition to providing a healthy, safe and secure environment where humans and animals live and work together in partnership, Ringling Bros. is deeply involved in the conservation of exotic species. Our performing animals serve as ambassadors for their species.

Endangered Species.
There are representatives of a number of threatened or endangered species in our 200-plus animal menagerie. All of the Ringling Bros. animals were either acquired prior to the 1975 Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) or the Endangered Species Act, which prohibits the taking of animals from the wild, or are captive-born.
     Unfortunately, the Asian elephant and the Bengal tiger are currently listed as endangered. The worldwide conservation community is well aware of this crisis, with animal protectionists working to protect their dwindling natural habitats and prevent the ever-growing conflicts between animals and humans as they compete for space and resources.
   Independent studies have shown that the public display of animals heightens public awareness of the animals and of our responsibility for their well-being and protection. This is especially true for children, who not only become more aware of the animals and their special needs and abilities, but also experience firsthand the importance of caring for and respecting all animals.

Ringling Bros. Center for Elephant Conservation.
Ringling Bros. is directly helping the endangered Asian elephant through our Center for Elephant Conservation (CEC). Located in Polk County, Florida, this facility is dedicated to the conservation, breeding, scientific study, and retirement of the Asian elephant. It allows us to share our knowledge gained there with veterinary and scientific communities worldwide.