Life for captive whales, dolphins, and other marine mammals is nothing like a life in the ocean. It is almost impossible to maintain a family group in captivity, a tragedy for whales and dolphins. When you see marine mammals in tanks or pools, consider what they have lost in order to entertain us.
Whales and dolphins swim long distances each day, sometimes in a straight line for 100 miles. Most seals and sea lions migrate hundreds of miles each year. How large is the average tank in a zoo or aquarium?
Dolphins are self-aware and capable of abstract thinking. When captured from the wild, they are ripped violently and traumatically from their social units. Japan’s drive fishery is a particularly cruel example, in which many dolphins are slaughtered alongside the so-called “lucky” ones, who are sold to dolphin display facilities.
Don’t support this commercial cruelty. Refuse to swim with the dolphins or visit a marine mammal show.
Killer Controversy
A new report outlines how the keeping of orcas in captivity is dangerous to the animals and their keepers.
Learn MoreNews & Events
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September 26, 2011
Ryan Reynolds Dishes on "The Whale"
Read an exclusive conversation with Hollywood superstar Ryan Reynolds about his behind-the-scenes role in the poignant and thought-provoking new documentary "The Whale" and what this remarkable story means to him.
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September 19, 2011
Captivity Is Dangerous to Killer Whales and Their Keepers, Report Shows
The HSUS and Humane Society International have released a report outlining the arguments and scientific evidence against the public display of killer whales, or orcas, on animal welfare grounds.
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September 6, 2011
A Whale of a Tale
"The Whale" is a documentary film that tells the story of Luna, an inquisitive, friendly, orca whose life teaches us about the mysterious yet undeniable bond we have with our fellow creatures.
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August 17, 2011
"Minds in the Water"—a Surfer Fights for Fellow Ocean Creatures
Follow champion surfer Dave Rastovich's fight to protect whales, dolphins, and other marine life in the documentary, "Minds in the Water."
Our Victories
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December 29, 2011
2011: Beautiful Victories for Animals in Laboratories
What do Botox, the Endangered Species Act, and biomedical research have in common? Find out about The HSUS's work to protect animals in laboratories in 2011.
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January 6, 2011
Ohio Rule Issued to Prohibit Dangerous Wild Animals as Pets
The HSUS applauds Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland for issuing an executive order that prohibits keeping dangerous wild animals as pets.
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July 22, 2010
The HSUS, HSLF Praise Illinois Governor for Signing Primate Pet Ban and Antifreeze Safety Bills
The HSUS and HSLF commend Illinois Gov. Quinn for signing bills to prohibit to private ownership of primates as pets and require the addition of a bitter flavor to antifreeze and engine coolant to prevent poisoning of children and animals.
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June 30, 2010
Landmark Ohio Animal Welfare Agreement Reached Among HSUS, Ohioans for Humane Farms, Gov. Strickland, and Leading Livestock Organizations
A deal struck among The HSUS, Ohioans for Humane Farms, Ohio agriculture leaders and Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland will lead to major animal welfare improvements in Ohio on a raft of issues.