Performing in a garden
In recent years, Tonga was no longer rented out to circuses but had to perform in the garden, where the owners have a cafeteria and playground. At AAP’s Spanish rescue centre, Tonga can finally look forward to a life without forced performances.
9 out of 10 former circus animals suffer from trauma
Tonga is now on his way to AAP’s Spanish rescue centre, which specialises in rehabilitating primates and big cats. AAP director David van Gennep from Brandenburg: ‘At first glance, Tonga seems to be in reasonably good condition. But we will have to wait and see how he is really doing after all these years of exploitation. We recently conducted research into the animals we were able to rescue from a life in the circus. Nine out of ten were found to have at least one health problem or behavioural disorder.’
‘In European circuses, big cats often have their claws removed. Other animals injure themselves due to stress. Cruel training, forced contact with humans and long-distance transport in far too cramped quarters often leave deep scars.’
No regrets
The owners of Tonga worked for many years in numerous large circuses throughout Europe, including the Dutch Circus Renz. A few years ago, they decided to settle in Brandenburg with their animals, where they rent out playground equipment and ice cream carts. Now that their last tiger has left, along with their four lions, their career with animal acts has come to an end. They have no regrets about the life they have imposed on these wild animals. ‘I don’t want to hear any comments about the welfare of circus animals; our animals are very well cared for,’ states the former website of the German ‘adventure farm’.
Tragic story
Germany is the only EU member state without regulations on the use of wild animals in circuses. The Netherlands has had such a ban since 2015, and in countries such as Spain and France, AAP has also successfully lobbied for legislation to end entertainment involving wild animals. With the tragic story of Tonga, AAP, supported by all major German animal welfare organisations, wants to convince the authorities to drastically change their policy.
Currently, almost all animals, including dangerous animals such as monkeys, lions and tigers, can be used in travelling circuses, local attractions and even kept as pets.
A new future for Tonga the tiger
Later today, the tiger will arrive at AAP’s rescue centre near Alicante in Spain. Here he will be thoroughly examined and he will spend the first few weeks in quarantine. During this time, Tonga can get used to his new home and his behaviour can be observed. The tiger will then move to an outdoor enclosure, where he can finally live a life where he can just be a tiger.Photos of the rescue operation:
