Program Term Archive

Captive Marine Mammals

Captive Marine Mammals

Marine Wildlife

Whales and dolphins are complex social animals and are not well suited for a life in captivity. When confined, they are prevented from carrying out natural behaviors, which include roaming...

China Overtakes US in Captive Orca Numbers

Press ReleaseDecember 19, 2024Marine Wildlife

Investigators have confirmed that, for the first time, China has overtaken the United States as holder of the highest number of captive orcas (22). A report released today by the China...

SWIMS Act Reintroduced to Phase Out Public Display of Captive Whales

Press ReleaseJanuary 30, 2024Marine Wildlife

Bill would prohibit breeding, wild capture, import, and export of four whale species The Animal Welfare Institute (AWI) applauds US Reps. Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jared Huffman (D-CA) and Suzan DelBene...

The “Blackfish” Legacy: Captive Marine Mammal Industry Continues Decline

Press ReleaseJuly 19, 2023Marine Wildlife

A decade after the documentary “Blackfish” examined the ethics and consequences of keeping orcas in captivity, marine theme parks and aquariums that feature cetaceans are struggling to remain relevant. According...