Dolphin Project

Dolphins have evolved over millions of years, adapting perfectly to life in the ocean. They are intelligent, emotionally sensitive, social and self-aware, and capable of lifelong attachments, with families frequently remaining together for life. And yet dolphins are routinely captured, harassed, and slaughtered. Many are sold into captivity around the world, made to perform tricks for our amusement at “dolphin parks.” Dolphins living in captive conditions are often placed in unfamiliar groupings, in cramped, sterile conditions. Many are regularly treated with ulcer medication or antidepressant medication to alleviate the frustration of captivity.

The Dolphin Project’s mission is to end the exploitation and slaughter of dolphins. Founded in 1970, the organization aims to educate the public about captivity and, where feasible, retire, rehabilitate, and release captive dolphins. They also work to investigate and advocate for economic alternatives to dolphin slaughter, and to put a permanent end to dolphin captivity, for example by encouraging people to take a pledge not to buy a ticket to a dolphin show. Founder Ric O’Barry, a famous dolphin trainer himself until one died in his arms, says, “I’m fighting [not] only for individual captive dolphins and dolphins in general but also for people, for the mind and sensibilities of future generations toward the world itself.”

Dolphin Project