By Brianne Hogan / Source: Ecorazzi

circus

It’s the end of an era, and a step forward for animal rights: Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus has announced it will phase out the use of elephants in its shows.

The circus’ parent company, Feld Entertainment, announced Thursday that it will phase out elephant performances by 2018 amid growing concerns over the treatment of animals who are used in live shows.

In a statement, Kenneth Feld, Chairman and CEO of Feld Entertainment said: “This is the most significant change we have made since we founded the Ringling Bros. Center for Elephant Conservation in 1995. When we did so, we knew we would play a critical role in saving the endangered Asian elephant for future generations, given how few Asian elephants are left in the wild . . .This decision was not easy, but it is in the best interest of our company, our elephants and our customers.”

After 2018, the circus’ remaining elephants will live out their days at an animal conservation facility in Florida.

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