Cetaceans and pinnipeds held in marine parks and aquariums face welfare challenges that have generated increasing scientific and public concern worldwide.
Cetacean welfare in captivity is fundamentally constrained by the animals' cognitive and physical needs: complex navigational intelligence, tight family bonds, extensive range requirements, and acoustic communication designed for open water environments. Tanks cannot simulate any of these. The result is individuals with measurably shorter lives, high rates of stereotypy, dental problems from bar-biting, and documented stress responses. The scientific consensus has moved decisively toward viewing cetacean captivity as inherently unable to meet welfare needs.