Marine mammal advocates on the Caribbean island of St. Maarten - and around the world - are rallying to stop the construction of a new captive dolphin facility there. While dolphins from Mexico have reportedly been designated for the new park, dubbed "Atlantida", building permits have yet to be granted. There's still time - and hope. Act now!

As is the case in many countries, St. Maarten seems to view captive dolphin swim programs as a quick fix to attract tourists - and tourist dollars - to the financially-struggling nation. But WSPA supporters know that these programs come with a very high price; one that is paid by the dolphins, often with their lives. Captive dolphin facilities have long troubled marine mammal experts, who recognize that confinement and forced interaction with humans cause extensive suffering to such intelligent and far-ranging creatures. Research shows that there simply is no way to maintain dolphins in captivity with any sense of well being.

Equally alarming is the fact St. Maarten is at great risk from hurricanes and tropical storms. A series of hurricanes has pounded the Caribbean this year, destroying even the most reinforced of structures. In a shallow sea pen, the dolphins would be exposed and unprotected, with no hope of escape. Recently, a facility in La Paz, Mexico lost all of its dolphins when a tropical storm hit the area. Several of the animals succumbed to blunt force trauma, being tossed relentlessly against the fence that confined them. Others perished after ingesting debris that washed into their enclosures. St. Maarten is a small island with very little natural protection. On top of the already staggering welfare implications inherent in captivity, these dolphins would be sitting ducks in any kind of tropical storm.

St. Maarten is a tropical paradise. Don't let its natural allure and pristine beauty be marred by the ugliness of captive dolphin spectacles. St. Maarten's officials need to hear from you today!

Take Action:
The Honorable Franklyn Richards
email: cabgov@sintmaarten.net
Fax: 011+ 599 542 4172