Elephants Rampage in Wisconsin

Two elephants performing with the Shrine Circus in Dunn County, Wis., allegedly bolted out of a circus tent during a June 17, 2002, show. Crowds scattered, a child was injured, and one of the elephants caused hundreds of dollars of property damage. PETA is calling on Dunn County officials to follow the lead of other communities and ban elephant acts.

Elephant rebellions against trainers for circuses across the country are becoming regular occurrences. Since 1990, captive elephants have killed 59 people and injured more than 120 others. Click here for a complete list.

It’s no wonder that elephants snap from the strain of circus life. Circuses use cruel training methods that include beatings and electric shock to force these magnificent animals to perform grueling tricks. Click here to see how circuses train elephants behind the scenes.

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