Animal cruelty in Chinese circuses revealed

Abusive practices at Chinese zoos have been revealed in a report published by Animals Asia Foundation.

The report, along with some shocking footage, shows bears boxing and being beaten with sticks.

A large number of zoos in China provide animal performances as a form of entertainment for visitors.

But the animals are kept in small, barren, concrete enclosures often in darkened rooms at the back of the performance areas away from spectators.

David Neale, Animals Asia Animal Welfare Director, said: "Animal performances portray the animal to the public in a humiliating way that does not promote empathy and respect."

There are now only a small number of performing of animals in Britain but the practice was once widespread.