Hungary adopts broad ban on wild animals in circuses

Hungary has enacted a nationwide regulation that will end the use of a broad range of wild animals in circus performances from 1 January 2027. Published in the official Hungarian Gazette, the measure also bars circuses from newly acquiring, breeding, training or exhibiting the listed species, extending protection beyond what audiences see in the ring.

The list covers 20 mammal groups, four bird groups and reptiles classed under Hungarian rules as especially or moderately dangerous. Elephants, primates, bears, giraffes, hippos, rhinoceroses, seals and kangaroos are among those covered, alongside wild members of the cat and dog families, birds of prey, owls and cassowaries. The regulation cites animal-welfare and ethical concerns.

Circuses may keep animals they already legally hold for the rest of those animals’ lives, but may no longer train, display or use them in performances. Existing breeding permits may continue until they expire. Domestic cattle, pigs, horses, donkeys, dogs, cats and ferrets are excluded. By curbing acquisition and breeding as well as performances, the rules will gradually prevent new generations of listed wild animals from entering circus life.