It's not OK to exploit exotic wild animals at the Fair!

We understand that acts and attractions featuring exotic wild animals have been featured at the Barnstable County Fair for many years, but it is time for this to change.

Biologists, animal welfare experts and many others worldwide agree that the innate behavioral and environmental needs of many wild animals cannot be met in the context of traveling exhibits or crowded carnival-like settings. When these needs remain unmet, animals suffer, no matter how well-intentioned their keepers may be.

Because the general public is increasingly aware of this, many of these acts now describe themselves as “educational”. This is nothing but greenwashing. There is no educational value in the display of “racing lemurs”, lone monkeys in small cages, or big cats jumping through hoops. In fact, exposing children to such acts is likely to teach them all the wrong things.

Some of us are residents of Falmouth or live nearby; some of us live further afield, but we're all potential visitors to the Fair. We're asking that you change your policy, and stop promoting or hosting acts or attractions featuring exotic wild animals. Legislatures all over the world are implementing similar policies, and with very good reason. Why not take notice of this and do the right thing?

 Please, stop exploiting exotic wild animals at the Fair!