Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE, Founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and UN Messenger of Peace is seeking global support for organisations developing protected, secure sites for former captive dolphins and whales
It is well-documented that dolphins and whales in captivity exhibit behaviours linked to stress, boredom, depression, and frustration. Dolphinariums are outdated and inappropriate remnants of the past, and there is growing international sentiment against them.
In captivity, dolphins and other cetaceans are confined to small tanks, performing tricks for dead fish and human entertainment, conditions that do not meet the needs of these highly intelligent and complex mammals. In the wild, dolphins and whales thrive in vast areas, traveling hundreds of kilometres and diving to great depths.
As more dolphinariums close, the need for seaside sanctuaries has become critical. Efforts to develop sanctuaries are at a pivotal point, and those leading the charge of change need global support to move forward.
Seaside sanctuaries will allow cetaceans, some of whom have spent their entire lives in captivity and others ripped from the wild, to thrive in protected areas where they can be safe and supported by caring teams. Such sites will enable these mammals to flourish in more spacious, natural environments. Most importantly, sanctuaries will grant them more freedom to choose how they live their lives.
“I have gathered a committee of experts (JGICC) to help phase out the captivity of dolphins, orcas, and beluga whales while supporting the development of seaside sanctuaries where these magnificent mammals can retire in more natural conditions,” Dr. Goodall states.
With the help of committee co-chairs Melody Horrill and Dr. Koen Margodt and other dedicated experts, Dr Jane has recorded a video which broadly calls for moving dolphins from dolphinariums to seaside sanctuaries. Just as land-based sanctuaries have proven invaluable for terrestrial animals, it is time for marine mammals to be offered safe spaces in their natural habitat. “At the Jane Goodall Institute, we have firsthand experience showing that sanctuaries can yield enormously positive outcomes for previously captive animals. My Institute successfully operates sanctuaries for another complex mammal—chimpanzees rescued from the bushmeat trade and other inappropriate situations.”
The call for action is clear: support the creation of seaside sanctuaries for cetaceans and help protect these extraordinary mammals.
The JGICC, formed in 2022 is committed to creating a world without the capture, breeding, and exploitation of cetaceans in captivity. The Committee comprises global dolphin and whale experts and members of the Jane Goodall Institute.