The movement to end dolphin captivity and transition performing and display dolphins to seaside sanctuaries is gaining momentum, with welfare science supporting the case for reform.
The welfare science is clear: dolphins are highly intelligent, socially complex, wide-ranging animals whose needs cannot be adequately met in concrete pools. Captive dolphin welfare has improved with better management practices, but fundamental constraints remain. Sea sanctuaries represent the most welfare-positive option for non-releasable captive dolphins, allowing greater environmental complexity and natural behaviour expression.