Marine Animals

Dolphin Captivity Reform

Keeping dolphins in captivity for entertainment is increasingly restricted globally, with welfare science driving reform towards sanctuary models.

Key Facts

Over 3,000 bottlenose dolphins are held in captivity worldwide
Captive dolphins show stereotypies and abnormal behaviours indicative of poor welfare
Live capture operations involve high mortality and severe stress
Many countries have banned or restricted dolphin capture and performance
Sea sanctuaries offer an alternative to either captivity or open-water release

Welfare Considerations

Captive dolphins in entertainment settings typically cannot express natural behaviours, maintain natural social structures, or escape stressful stimuli. Scientific consensus on dolphin sentience and cognitive complexity strengthens the welfare case for reform. Sea sanctuaries that provide large, natural environments represent the most credible welfare-positive future for current captive dolphins.

What You Can Do

Avoid dolphin shows and swim-with-dolphin attractions
Support organisations campaigning for dolphin captivity bans
Advocate for government restrictions on dolphin entertainment facilities
Donate to sea sanctuary development projects for captive cetaceans
Share information about dolphin captivity welfare impacts responsibly