July 2005

WSPA and the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) have collaborated on The Case Against Marine Mammals in Captivity, an in-depth look at the arguments used by the display industry to justify captivity and the scientific research which discredits these claims.  An update of a 1999 version by HSUS (click here for original report), the report synopsis is available now, with the full report slated for release in Fall 2005.   

For decades, marine attractions around the world have marketed themselves as invaluable enterprises that contribute significantly to the research, conservation and public appreciation of marine species.  They further contend that the animals they hold are better off in human care and perhaps even enjoy it.  The Case Against Marine Mammals in Captivity uses the latest research to debunk these assertions and to expose the realities of life for the dolphins, small whales and other marine mammals that are induced to entertain us. 

Traumatic captures, impoverished quality of life, scarce conservation benefits, mis-education of the public, aberrant behavior and more are the true hallmarks of captive marine mammal facilities.  The Case Against Marine Mammals in Captivity will help to change the way the public “sees” captivity. To read an overview of the report, click here.