Roadside Attractions

A young boy sitting on an elephant's leg while an adult woman takes a photo with her phone at a zoo or wildlife sanctuary.
A young person wearing a black jacket and reddish-brown pants is training a large sitting elephant with tusks, using a ring held in its trunk, in an outdoor enclosure decorated with colorful banners and lanterns, surrounded by lush greenery.

Roadside zoos are typically small, privately-owned, and often unaccredited facilities that keep wild animals for public display and entertainment. They are generally located in rural areas near highways or common travel routes to attract passing travelers to stop and view the animals. [1 10 12]

Roadside zoos and similar attractions raise significant ethical and welfare concerns. Many fail to provide proper nutrition, medical care, and mental stimulation, leading to boredom, agitation, or despondency in the animals. [2 4 12] Animals are often kept in small, dirty cages that restrict their natural movements and behaviors, with enclosures lacking appropriate shelter, shade, and temperature control. [1 2 4 12] Some facilities encourage dangerous interactions between animals and visitors, such as bottle-feeding bear or tiger cubs, putting both animals and people at risk. [4 5 7] Roadside zoos frequently mislead the public about their educational value and conservation efforts, promoting the false notion that animals exist for human entertainment. [1 6]

Poor sanitation and overcrowding can lead to the spread of disease among animals and potentially to humans. [2 7] Many roadside zoos have insufficient fencing and safety measures, increasing the risk of animal escapes and endangering both animals and the surrounding community. [1 2 5] These facilities often operate under lax or poorly enforced state and federal laws, with minimal oversight. [4 6]

There have been documented cases of animals in roadside zoos being subjected to cruel training methods, including physical abuse, restraints, and psychological distress. [5 6] Tools such as bullhooks, whips, and electric prods are sometimes used to enforce compliance. [8] Animals in these facilities are often kept in small, dirty cages, denied adequate food, medical care, and mental stimulation, leading to boredom, agitation, and emotional distress. [1 2]

Reports also describe animals exhibiting signs of psychological suffering, such as pacing, rocking, swaying, and even self-harm like chewing on their own limbs or pulling out their fur or feathers. [4 6] Additionally, some roadside zoos have faced lawsuits and legal action for inhumane treatment, including documented cases of animals being physically abused or neglected. [5 6] Animals are also transported in cramped, poorly ventilated trailers for extended periods, often without adequate access to food, water, or veterinary care, leading to severe health issues and stress. [9 7]