The Captive Animals’ Protection Society (CAPS) was deeply concerned and issued a formal complaint to ITV when it learnt that two Humboldt penguins were used on The Jonathan Ross Show (aired on the 21^st of January 2012.)

CAPS argues that there is no ethical justification for this type of publicity stunt at the animals’ expense, and that using animals in this way seriously compromises their welfare. Animals used in the entertainment industry are denied the ability to express normal behaviour, take part in natural socialisation, live in a natural environment and have their individual needs substituted for those of the industry.

The stunt sits uncomfortably when considering that the use of wild animals in circuses is currently being hotly debated at the highest levels of Government and a complete ban on the practice has great public, parliamentary and expert support. Whilst CAPS fights to see an end to the use of animals in the big top, it is extremely disappointing to see ITV showing a programme which exposes wild animals to bright studio lights, human interaction and a noisy atmosphere (including loud music and cheering crowds) for the amusement of the studio audience.

It is particularly disturbing that the two penguins in question are endangered, and CAPS believes that using them for entertainment value takes away from the urgency of vital conservation work.

In 2010 Hamleys on Regents Street cancelled plans to create and exhibit a penguin pool, which would house live penguins in the cramped and busy city-centre store. However, after criticism over the welfare of the animals, CAPS was pleased to see this plan was cancelled.

In a statement the store said: “Whilst we were taking every measure possible to ensure the welfare of the penguins, we have listened closely to people’s views and feel this is the best course of action”.

We hope that ITV will follow in the footsteps of Hamleys and change the way it considers animals in the entertainment business by ceasing to broadcast programmes which could be harmful to the individuals involved in the future.