Don't let Guyana become the latest supplier in the captive dolphin trade. Photo: Helene O'Barry

The country of Guyana is situated on the east coast of South America and nestled between Venezuela to the north and Brazil to the south. In early February, the Stabroek News contacted WSPA to report plans for the capture and export of dolphins abroad. While Guyana has a reputation as being a trader of wildlife, it is believed that this is the first time dolphins have been targeted. WSPA, along with WDCS, HSUS, Zoocheck Canada and COMARINO (Mexico), have been looking into this matter more fully, speaking with officials in Guyana and making representations to the CITES Secretariat. Our investigations have shown that while the permits have not yet been granted, there are indeed very definite plans to round up dolphins and send them abroad, with Mexico being one of the intended recipients. (Click the following to read the recent news reports: First article , second article. Please note that while the articles are generally sound, they do incorrectly reflect WSPA's statements with regard to the length of time needed to prepare a Non-Detriment Finding.)

WSPA is alarmed that this plan is even being considered, as it is riddled with very dire conservation and welfare implications. First, we can find no evidence of surveys being conducted by independent experts in recent years on the size and status of the dolphin population. Therefore, removing individuals may have disastrous consequences for the viability of the species. Second, capture causes severe stress and harm to dolphins and can often be lethal. And the effects ripple far beyond the individual specimens taken, as those left behind may suffer stress, injury or even be killed during the violent and chaotic capture process. Further, the impact on the health and welfare of the individuals selected for captive display is extreme. It is impossible to accommodate the mental, physical and social needs of dolphins in captivity and cruel to confine them. The physiological and psychological effects of confinement can manifest in aggression, between themselves and towards humans, boredom, and a lower life expectancy and higher infant mortality than in the wild. Added to the danger inherent in the capture is the risk and stress associated with long distance transportation to a display location.

If this operation is not stopped, it will set a precedent for Guyana to become the newest supplier to the captive dolphin industry. Guyana's waters would become a regular source of dolphins, with calamitous effects for the populations targeted.

There is still time to stop the captures from going ahead, if you act TODAY. Please write to the Guyana authorities, urging them not to issue permits for the capture and export of dolphins captured in Guyana's waters.