Canada is moving to restrict the captivity of elephants and great apes through proposed legislation known as Bill S-15, which has passed the Senate. The bill seeks to prohibit keeping species such as elephants, chimpanzees, gorillas, orangutans, and bonobos, with limited exceptions for conservation, animal welfare, or scientific purposes.
Currently, around 25 elephants and just over two dozen great apes remain in captivity across Canada, mostly in zoos. In the wild, elephants travel long distances daily, sometimes up to 50 km, while great apes depend on complex social structures and stimulating environments. These needs are difficult to replicate in captivity, where conditions especially in colder climates, can contribute to both physical and behavioural challenges.
The proposed law would also prevent their use in entertainment, including rides and circus-style performances. If enacted, Canada could become the first country to phase out elephant captivity nationwide, building on its earlier ban on keeping whales and dolphins in 2019.
The move reflects a growing global shift toward recognizing animals as sentient beings with needs that are often incompatible with captive settings.
Source: “Canada Senate passes bill to ban the keeping of elephants and great apes in captivity.” - Species Unite
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