In this undated image taken from a video and released in New York by the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, a trainer, bottom right, hits an elephant in the face with a rod, backstage at the Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey Circus. . (AP Photo/PETA, Ho)
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals said Wednesday that it's the first time the group has obtained undercover video of how animals are treated backstage.
PETA says someone affiliated with the group recorded the video this year.
The four-minute video shows Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus trainers using bullhooks to move elephants and whipping tigers.
Feld Entertainment, which owns Ringling, disputed the abuse charges.
It accused PETA of releasing misinformation, and said its animals are cared by veterinarians and staff. It said the circus show in question was in compliance with regulations.
