Why we need Bill 236, the Captive Wildlife Protection Act

Currently, anyone in Ontario can collect exotic animals like lions and tigers, call themselves a zoo and operate with little to no oversight. There are no  licensing requirements, no mandatory inspections and no   animal welfare and public safety standards. This lack of regulation has led to dozens of unregulated “roadside zoos” across the province, putting animals and public safety at risk.

In a groundbreaking step to address this issue, World Animal Protection and Toronto Zoo proudly supported Ontario Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) Lucille Collard in introducing Bill 236, the Captive Wildlife Protection Act, 2024. Together, we are advocating for stronger regulations to protect wild animals and ensure public safety across the province.  

Colin Saravanamuttoo, Executive Director, World Animal Protection, Lucille Collard, MPP for Ottawa-Vanier, and Dolf DeJong, CEO, Toronto Zoo, introducing the Captive Wildlife Protection Act, 2024.

What the Captive Wildlife Protection Act does

The Captive Wildlife Protection Act is a landmark action to protect animals and safeguard our communities. The bill introduces:

1. Mandatory licensing: Zoos will need to meet clear requirements, including proof of financial resources and emergency preparedness.
2. Annual inspections: Facilities will be held accountable through regular inspections to ensure they meet high standards of care and safety.
3. Entertainment ban: Using wild animals for entertainment purposes, such as petting sessions, photo ops or performances that compromise their welfare will be prohibited.

Under the new rules, attractions like Marineland, an organization with a troubling record of animal welfare violations and a string of animal deaths, would never have been able to continue operating. The act also brings Ontario in line with other provinces that already have stricter regulations for captive wildlife.

A beluga at Marineland (Photo: Sasha Rink / World Animal Protection).

What you can do 

Support for this legislation is growing, with 88% of Ontarians in favour of provincial licensing and oversight for zoos. To turn this bill into law, public action is crucial. 

Here’s how you can help: 

• If you live in Ontario, contact your MPP: Ask them to express their support for Bill 236 to Solicitor General, Michael Kerzner. (Don’t know your MPP? Find them here.) 

• Spread awareness: Share this blog post or talk to friends and family about why this legislation is important. Ask them to write their MPP too! 

• Follow us: Stay updated on the latest news and actions you can take to help animals in Ontario and beyond. 

The Captive Wildlife Protection Act represents a turning point for how Ontario treats its wild animals. Let’s ensure this groundbreaking bill leads to a future where all animals are protected from harm and exploitation. 

Learn more:  

Banner photo: Sasha Rink / World Animal Protection