Orca captivity has become one of the most controversial issues in animal welfare. Understanding the evidence for and against captivity guides the ongoing phase-out of orca display.
Captive orca welfare evidence presents a compelling case for phase-out of display programmes. The combination of drastically reduced lifespan, stereotypic behaviour, dental pathology and social stress in captivity contrasts with the complex social lives and vast ranges of wild orca. While sanctuary solutions remain challenging, the welfare evidence strongly supports ending breeding programmes and transitioning existing animals to larger natural sea pen environments where possible.