The Circus Recruits For Conservation?!

I think that the early Zoos & Circuses were the first to really be inspired enough by wildlife to want to show it to the world because of their magnificent, wonderful traits. Unfortunately, many an awful growing pain has passed since then….and now we are in the modern era of research and refinement…… A thought had occurred to me one day as to how Circuses were just cut off to the quick. This BIG change for the circus animals was a BIG stress as well. Ironic at whom caused these stressful events for these animals. Meaning, well, of course, but it seems like the triggering event for circus elephant stress also. There was no phasing or mediary. This stress, of course, leads to a weakened immune system. Most obviously marked since 95 for most Tame elephants and since mid-80s for wild populations.

Since these Circus Caravans, whether by road or track, could be very far-reaching into communities away from the beaten track that are more sensitive to wildlife ecology and possibly otherwise may NEVER know of such subjects. Having at least decades of experience in logistics, Circus Crews would know the way. So the calm & wonder of the animals comes with the action of the acrobats. The excitement and travel of such a “Circus” could be quite interesting to an adventuresome soul seeking their life’s quest.

Who Else Is in The Circus Caravan Without Animals?

Representatives from conservation societies all over the world could tour along to educate with their expertise and experience (WWF, Wildlife Conservancy, etc. This could also be an opportunity to recruit new minds into wildlife conservation. An adventuresome nature lover may be inspired enough to serve abroad to help physically protect endangered wildlife or help his own local community by professionally participating. Retired military may enjoy a stint in Borneo or Sumatra guarding elephants by foiling snares, traps, and poisons. Another layer of “Educating Entertainment” for regular patrons that may want to go on the Great Nature Ride. Kinda like the Napa Wine Train…but better, & with it’s own Veterinarian of course.

What Other Stops Could Be Made?

Many Elephant/Animal Sanctuaries in the US may approve visitors under the right conditions. These facilities offer elephants comfortable retirement. Maybe they can be viewed from a tram? Surely visits from nature lovers could offer more financial support to the animals of these facilities. As these facilities love to spoil their animals. Also Zoos and Aquariums could be on the stop list? Who knows? The possibilities are numerous.

Nothing Speaks Like The Real Thing

Maybe a beginning medium would have been No performance, less travel, bigger accommodations, and more stops used as “Enrichment Stops”. These “Enrichment Stops” would be pre-determined large open areas for 1-2 species of animal to have (1 acre) open space for public view, and nite accommodations. These animals could have been discussed with the attending public regarding their ecology. Comparisons could be made to the local visiting area as “What if all YOUR animals were to disappear? The wicked problems their species face in their home habitat poaching, Poisoning, displacement, etc. For someone to be able to see & experience something so magnificent in an remote open wildlife setting (elephants, giraffes, tigers) must be unforgettable. HOWEVER note I said remote places, calm. Even so the welfare of the animal comes first. But I think It could be done. Moden technology & conscience.