Founded in 1957, CAPS campaigns to end the use of performing animals in entertainment and keeping wild animals in captivity. Our main campaigns concern animal circuses, zoos and aquaria, the exotic pet trade and the use of animals in commercials and films.

We campaign for a ban on the use of all animals (wild and domestic) in circuses on the grounds that animals suffer when used in travelling shows in which they are forced to perform unnatural acts.

Captivity can never meet the needs of a wild animal and many animals in zoos can be seen displaying abnormal behaviours. Real conservation needs to take place in the animals’ natural habitat.

The exotic pet trade results in the suffering and death of millions of animals for profit. Thousands of animals legally sold in the UK have been caught in the wild.

We have persuaded several companies to stop using great apes in commercials and now co-ordinate campaigns on behalf of the Ape Alliance on this issue.

Our undercover investigations expose the exploitation of animals for profit and entertainment while our educational work includes sending thousands of free information packs to students and schools.

Using evidence from our research and investigations our political lobbying has brought the plight of captive wildlife to the attention of the public and politicians.

The captivity of wildlife for entertainment diminishes the status of animals and teaches disrespect. CAPS encourage respect for all animals, human and non-human, through our work.

Contact: Craig Redmond

Contact address: PO Box 4186, Manchester. M60 2ZA

Email: info@captiveanimals.org

Tel: 0845 330 3911

Year organisation established: 1957

Chief Executive UK: Pat Simpson

Charity Status: Non-profit making company