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Sperm whales

We’re pushing governments for action for our climate heroes – whales

The climate crisis is the greatest threat to all life on Earth. But there is...
Dolphins captured for captivity in Taiji. Image: Hans Peter Roth

Loved and killed – whales and dolphins in Japan

Protests and criticism from outside Japan in response to the slaughter of whales and dolphins...
Narwhal with beluga whales

Unusual Whale Adoptions

Kidzone - quick links Fun Facts Curious kids Blogs Fantastic fundraisers Gallery Splish and Splash...
Irrawaddy dolphin

Helping fishers protect dolphins in Sarawak, Borneo

Fishing nets are bad news for dolphins and porpoises, so we're working with local fishers...
Dolphin watching from Chanonry Point, Scotland. Image: WDC/Charlie Phillips

Discovering inner peace – whale and dolphin watching and mental wellbeing

Guest blog If you've ever seen whales or dolphins in the wild, you'll know that...
Whale tail

An ocean of hope

In a monumental, jaw-dropping demonstration of global community, the nations of the world made history...
North Atlantic right whale Porcia and her calf.

Critically Endangered Right Whale Babies Spotted

Kidzone - quick links Fun Facts Curious kids Blogs Fantastic fundraisers Gallery Splish and Splash...
The infamous killing cove at Taiji, Japan

Why the Taiji dolphin hunt can never be justified

Supporters of the dolphin slaughter in Japan argue that killing a few hundred dolphins every...

SeaWorld set to expand overseas?

As SeaWorld continues to refute damage to its business as a result of the so-called “Blackfish effect”, President and CEO Jim Atchison has reported international expansion plans. WDC notes this news with some concern.

SeaWorld already holds 23 orcas in its North American theme parks and a further 4 to 6 at Loro Parque zoo in the Canary Islands. Could discussions with potential partners include orca displays in other countries? China, for example, where around 50 zoos and aquaria hold captive whales and dolphins, many imported following wild capture operations in Russia and the Japanese drive hunts.  Reports suggest at least two recently captured orcas from Russia are in captivity in China. 

As Richard Branson and Virgin Holidays review their support for facilities like SeaWorld, we ask them to consider how this industry operates and the impact it has on wild whale and dolphin populations around the world. 

If you haven’t already, please sign our petition calling on Sir Richard to end this support. 

About Cathy Williamson

Cathy Williamson was policy manager of our End Captivity Programme until July 2021.