The welfare science and ethics of dolphin captivity has evolved significantly, with growing evidence of complex cognitive and social needs challenging the justification for entertainment-focused facilities.
Dolphin captivity welfare science has matured alongside growing understanding of dolphin cognitive complexity. These animals maintain long-term social bonds, have named individuals, problem-solve, and appear to have rich inner lives. The evidence that captivity restricts the behavioral expression of cognitively complex animals is strong, though the question of whether captive dolphins can experience good welfare despite restrictions is more nuanced. The strongest welfare case supports sanctuaries over entertainment facilities, and natural sea pen environments over concrete tanks. The trajectory of regulation and public opinion suggests the era of large-scale dolphin entertainment captivity is ending.