The Captivity Debate

What’s the problem with captivity?

Marine mammals are some of the most charismatic creatures on the planet and it is certainly understandable that people are drawn to these incredible animals. However, serious biological, ethical, educational, and safety concerns have been raised by keeping dolphins and other small whales in captivity, such as in theme parks, aquaria, petting pools, and "swim-with-the-dolphins" programs. Over 35 species of whales and dolphins have been kept in captive environments since the 1860's (DCP 2007), but bottlenose dolphins and orcas are the most commonly kept species.

Biologically speaking, the capture and trade of marine mammals is a threat to populations and species. All over the world, animals are brutally captured, torn from their family groups, and the survivors are often transported long distances only to lead impoverished (and often short-lived) lives in confinement – a serious ethical concern. In terms of education, there is very little if any value in viewing captive marine mammals. What little information is conveyed to the visiting public is largely inaccurate because the animals’ ecology, natural behaviors, life spans, and social structures are misrepresented. Furthermore, there are serious safety issues for people in direct contact with marine mammals (facility workers and participants of “swim-with-the-dolphin” programs or petting pools). These individuals are at serious risk of disease, injury, and death. Marine mammals are wild animals and can be unpredictable and aggressive despite being “trained.”

These biological, ethical, educational, and safety concerns must outweigh our own entertainment. Marine mammals are best left to live wild and free in their natural habitat.