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# Marine Connection

Protecting dolphins and whales worldwide

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://marineconnection.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Another beluga whale dies at Shedd Aquarium](https://marineconnection.org/another-beluga-whale-dies-at-shedd-aquarium/) - 26-year-old Osiris arrived at Shedd in late July. The cause of death is not immediately clear, although the facility has stated that she had been a whale of clinical concern since her arrival. She is the third beluga from Marineland, Canada, to die at Shedd, and the fourth from Marineland overall. Peekachu, a 23-year-old female,
- [A voice for whales - not whale killing](https://marineconnection.org/a-voice-for-whales-not-whale-killing/) - Marine Connection is standing with long-standing colleagues in Antigua and Barbuda in strongly opposing any plans for the country to support the reintroduction of commercial whaling at the 70th Meeting of the International Whaling Commission in Hobart, Australia. The commercial killing of these intelligent, highly social, and remarkable animals is unnecessary, inhumane and has no
- [Porpoise distress in fishing gear](https://marineconnection.org/porpoise-distress-in-fishing-gear/) - A study captured, by chance, the heartbreaking moment a young harbour porpoise became entangled in a gillnet off the English coast - and sent out distress signals. Researchers from the University of St Andrews in Scotland recorded the incident in detail. In 2019, the team had equipped a gillnet off the coast of Cornwall, in
- [The hidden cost of fishing](https://marineconnection.org/the-hidden-cost-of-fishing/) - Fishing gear is a major threat to dolphins, whales, and porpoises worldwide. Marine Connection regularly highlights this issue to raise awareness of the devastating impact that fishing nets have on marine wildlife, and a recent study, carried out under the Defra-funded Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme, found that fishing nets are the most likely cause of
- [Cecil’s death highlights the reality of dolphin captivity](https://marineconnection.org/cecils-death-highlights-the-reality-of-dolphin-captivity/) - Cecil, a bottlenose dolphin who was held at Kolmården Zoo, was euthanised on 21 August 2026, aged 42.2 years. Reports say Cecil had recently experienced an infection. While the infection itself was resolved, his condition continued to decline. He was showing signs associated with ageing and had a weakened immune system, and veterinarians ultimately decided
- [DNA reveals the secrets of Ireland’s solitary social dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/dna-reveals-the-secrets-of-irelands-solitary-social-dolphins/) - A recent paper published in Ecology and Evolution sought to expand current knowledge of bottlenose dolphin genetics in Ireland by examining individuals that had either stranded along the coast or been sampled while alive at sea. The study also focused on several well-known solitary dolphins, including the most famous of all - Fungie, the Dingle
- [Remembering Danny the dolphin](https://marineconnection.org/remembering-danny-the-dolphin/) - Five years ago this month, Marine Connection unveiled a memorial to a male solitary sociable bottlenose dolphin named Danny. From 2018 to 2020, Danny became a familiar presence in the waters off the Cornish and Dorset coasts, captivating all who encountered him. Tragically, he was just 10 years old when his life was cut short
- [British Risso’s dolphins belong to single population](https://marineconnection.org/british-rissos-dolphins-belong-to-single-population/) - New research shows Risso’s dolphins around the British Isles are part of a single population. Scientists studied the DNA of dolphins that stranded in England, Scotland and Wales from 1992 to 2016. The results showed that Risso’s dolphins found around the British Isles are a distinct genetic entity, suggesting they don’t mix much with other
- [Disturbance threatening Malta’s wild dolphin population](https://marineconnection.org/disturbance-threatening-maltas-wild-dolphin-population/) - Marine Connection is supporting calls for stronger enforcement against dolphin harassment by recreational vessels in Malta. Together with EcoMarine Malta and various other organisations, we are calling for stronger protections through lower boat speeds, mandatory operator training, stricter enforcement of wildlife laws, compulsory wildlife protection briefings for jet ski users, marine conservation education as part
- [Annual orca census points to growth](https://marineconnection.org/annual-orca-census-points-to-growth/) - Pending one final check, this year's census of the endangered southern resident killer whale population appears to show a net increase of two orcas - an annual gain matched only four times over the past 20 years. The Center for Whale Research, which conducts the annual census, needs one more encounter with a group of
- [United to end commercial whaling](https://marineconnection.org/united-to-end-commercial-whaling/) - Marine Connection has joined the End Commercial Whaling Coalition, which is urging the governments of Iceland, Japan, and Norway to uphold the International Whaling Commission (IWC) moratorium. 2026 marks both the 40th anniversary of the commercial whaling moratorium and the 80th anniversary of the IWC. To mark these milestones, the coalition is calling on all
- [Marineland, Canada - belugas to be moved to USA](https://marineconnection.org/marineland-canada-belugas-to-be-moved-to-usa/) - Following the closure of Marineland, Canada, in 2024, the future of the animals remaining at the facility has been the subject of considerable discussion and speculation. Reports even suggested that the beluga whales were facing euthanasia after a proposed export to China failed, and a subsequent transfer to Spain was also rumoured not to proceed.
- [Dolphins following trawlers for food](https://marineconnection.org/dolphins-following-trawlers-for-food/) - According to a new report, large numbers of bottlenose dolphins are relying on fishing trawlers for food off Italy's eastern coast, suggesting they may be struggling to find enough prey in waters depleted by overfishing. The bottlenose dolphin population inhabiting the waters off the regions of Veneto and Marche is estimated to exceed 1,000 individuals.
- [The use of a pinger on Dusty the dolphin](https://marineconnection.org/the-use-of-a-pinger-on-dusty-the-dolphin/) - Marine Connection is pleased to report that Water Safety Clare at White Strand, Ireland, has decided to temporarily suspend the use of an acoustic pinger that was due to be deployed to discourage the solitary, sociable dolphin Dusty from entering a designated area during water safety training for children aged 8 to 14. A recent
- [Still no action on animal cruelty tourism](https://marineconnection.org/still-no-action-on-animal-cruelty-tourism/) - Two years in power and still, the UK’s Labour government chooses not to implement the Animals (Low Welfare Activities Abroad) Act, which passed into law in 2023. This legislation should see the banning of adverts and the sale of specific unethical activities abroad where animals are kept in captivity, subjected to cruel methods, forced to
- [Puget Sound's orca shift](https://marineconnection.org/puget-sounds-orca-shift/) - Data spanning nearly half a century shows that endangered, fish-eating southern resident killer whales are spending less time in the inland waters of Puget Sound, while Bigg's killer whales - transient predators that feed on seals, dolphins, and even other whales - are becoming increasingly common. The study found that the southern resident K and
- [Solitary dolphin 2-day workshop](https://marineconnection.org/solitary-dolphin-2-day-workshop/) - The UK has recorded the largest number of solitary-sociable cetaceans globally, and for over 25 years, Marine Connection has been monitoring these remarkable individuals. We have documented at least 17 solitary-sociable cetaceans, the majority of which were bottlenose dolphins. Of these, 11 were male, three were female, and two were of unknown sex. In addition
- [World's largest whale graveyard discovered](https://marineconnection.org/worlds-largest-whale-graveyard-discovered/) - The world’s largest whale graveyard has been discovered on the floor of the Indian Ocean, and it is also the deepest and oldest known of its kind on Earth, with some fossils dating back 5.3 million years. While exploring from a small submersible, researchers encountered an unusual concentration of marine remains and were stunned as
- [Help celebrate the UK's amazing wildlife](https://marineconnection.org/help-celebrate-the-uks-amazing-wildlife/) - The Bank of England is creating the next generation of £5, £10, £20, and £50 banknotes, and for the first time each denomination will feature a different native UK animal. Among the 18 remarkable species shortlisted is the much-loved bottlenose dolphin 🐬🐬🐬- but to be featured, they need your support! This is your chance to
- [Shocking dolphin killings in the Faroes](https://marineconnection.org/shocking-dolphin-killings-in-the-faroes/) - What took place in the Faroe Islands this week is difficult to comprehend on a human level. Reports indicate that more than 700 Atlantic white-sided dolphins were driven onto shore in coordinated drives at Tórshavn, Skálabotnur, and Hvalvík, where they were subsequently killed. Among those affected were pregnant females and entire pods, all of whom
- [Entanglement injuries cause prolonged suffering for cetaceans](https://marineconnection.org/entanglement-injuries-cause-prolonged-suffering-for-cetaceans/) - Fishing gear entanglement is a global issue, and the biggest, most serious threat affecting whales, dolphins, and porpoises of all sizes. Only recently, a humpback whale became entangled in a craypot line off the New Zealand coast last week, witnesses described it thrashing in distress for ten minutes before eventually freeing itself. It was a
- [World Oceans Day - June 8](https://marineconnection.org/world-oceans-day-june-8/) - This year’s theme is “Strong Marine Protected Areas for Our Blue Planet.” World Oceans Day is a global reminder of the importance of our oceans and the need to protect them. First proposed at the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, it was officially recognised by the United Nations in 2008. Marine Protected Areas
- [US Endangered Species Act (ESA) is safe - for now](https://marineconnection.org/us-endangered-species-act-esa-is-safe-for-now/) - Despite sustained efforts by the Trump administration and Republican leadership, they have now twice failed to gain enough support in the United States House of Representatives to pass legislation that would have substantially weakened the Endangered Species Act (ESA). This is highly encouraging news for wildlife conservation. The ESA currently provides legal protection for 1,662
- [Animal welfare overlooked in the King’s Speech](https://marineconnection.org/animal-welfare-overlooked-in-the-kings-speech/) - It’s deeply disappointing that the recent UK King’s Speech, which outlines the government’s priorities, planned new laws, and the agenda for the upcoming parliamentary session, failed to meaningfully address animal welfare issues, especially at a time when public concern for the treatment and protection of animals continues to grow. Animal welfare is not a niche
- [Polish campaign secures major victory against dolphinaria tourism](https://marineconnection.org/polish-campaign-secures-major-victory-against-dolphinaria-tourism/) - We are delighted to share a significant milestone in the campaign to end the promotion of cetacean captivity within the tourism industry. Our colleague Jakub Banasiak, representing NIE! E LA DELFINARIUM has announced that EXIM Tours, Poland’s sixth-largest travel agency, will no longer promote or sell excursions to dolphinaria or marine parks as part of its
- [Eyes on the Sea - Orca Watch Returns](https://marineconnection.org/eyes-on-the-sea-orca-watch-returns/) - It will soon be time for Orca Watch in Scotland, when members of the public and volunteers come together from 23–31 May to watch for not only orcas, but also other cetacean species, including porpoises, dolphins, and whales. Now in its 15th year, Orca Watch was first established in 2012 by Colin Bird to raise
- [Pilot whale calls drowned out by ocean noise](https://marineconnection.org/pilot-whale-calls-drowned-out-by-ocean-noise/) - More than 60,000 ships cross the Strait of Gibraltar each year, making it one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world and a major source of underwater noise pollution that can interfere with communication between marine mammals. A new study published in the Journal of Experimental Biology found that long-finned pilot whales increase the
- [Pilot whale stranding reveals deep-sea life clues](https://marineconnection.org/pilot-whale-stranding-reveals-deep-sea-life-clues/) - The long-finned pilot whale stranding on the Isle of Lewis in 2023 has provided scientists with rare insight into the species’ deep-water behaviour and complex social lives. New research focusing on the whales’ feeding patterns has shed further light on one of Scotland’s largest mass stranding events. The study, led by the Scottish Marine
- [European Cetacean Society Conference 2026](https://marineconnection.org/european-cetacean-society-conference-2026/) - It was an excellent week at the 37th European Cetacean Society conference in Dundee, Scotland, bringing together global experts in whales, dolphins, porpoises, and seals to share the latest science, conservation, and policy. Nearly 800 delegates from 46 countries attended - the largest ECS conference yet, starting with pre-conference workshops across the city, followed by
- [Acoustic device reduces bycatch of Black Sea porpoises](https://marineconnection.org/acoustic-device-reduces-bycatch-of-black-sea-porpoises/) - Europe’s smallest marine mammal, the endangered Black Sea harbour porpoise, is facing a critical fight for survival as it is pushed toward extinction by entanglement in fishing gear. The crisis is most acute in the Black Sea turbot fishery, where recent estimates suggest that more than 10,000 porpoises die each year. Other cetacean species are
- [Moray FLOW-Park Sparks Dolphin Risk Concerns](https://marineconnection.org/moray-flow-park-sparks-dolphin-risk-concerns/) - Ten years ago, Marine Connection supported a campaign opposing ship-to-ship oil transfers in the Moray Firth - operations that would have taken place near the South and North Sutors, one of the most important feeding grounds for the resident population of bottlenose dolphins. Harbour porpoises, minke whales, and a wide variety of marine and bird
- [Acoustic disruption impacts whales](https://marineconnection.org/acoustic-disruption-impacts-whales/) - A new study has found that whale calls can decline by up to 50% in response to seismic surveys, which are widely used to locate oil and gas reserves. These findings raise concerns about the impact of such surveys on vulnerable marine species that depend on sound for communication, navigation, and foraging. Published in Scientific
- [Orcas may be to blame for strandings](https://marineconnection.org/orcas-may-be-to-blame-for-strandings/) - In 2021 and 2023, hundreds of common dolphins were stranded in shallow waters in San Antonio Bay in northern Patagonia. Some died, many returned safely to the sea. But what remained a mystery until now was how they ended up stuck on sandbanks in the first place; however, a new study published in the journal
- [Investigation into mass whale stranding](https://marineconnection.org/investigation-into-mass-whale-stranding/) - A study into the deaths of 55 long-finned pilot whales on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland, July 2023, found that the whales were generally in good overall health before they beached, with no significant underlying diseases. But one of the female whales was shown to have had a difficult birth, which may have been
- [Marine protection in Southwest Ireland](https://marineconnection.org/marine-protection-in-southwest-ireland/) - Up to 30 tour operators in Ireland are to trial a new initiative aimed at protecting the country’s marine wildlife over the coming months under a new government scheme. Companies that operate off the coast of Cork and Kerry will have to abide by the new Code of Practice to minimise or eliminate harmful disturbance
- [Venice’s Solitary Dolphin: Mimmo](https://marineconnection.org/venices-solitary-dolphin-mimmo/) - In June 2025, a young bottlenose dolphin was spotted in the busy Venice Lagoon and, over the following months, appeared to prefer waters adjacent to San Marco Square. As is often the case with solitary dolphins in coastal areas, it wasn’t long before its presence attracted increasing attention, which, in turn, resulted in significant media
- [Stopping wild animal exploitation abroad](https://marineconnection.org/stopping-wild-animal-exploitation-abroad/) - Yesterday, 4 March, was a day for positive action. Marine Connection joined animal welfare charities at the Houses of Parliament asking MPs to ‘Get Their ACT Together’ and finalise the Animals (Low Welfare Activities Abroad) Act which could prohibit the sale and advertising in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland of cruel and abusive overseas animal
- [It’s tough being an orca mum](https://marineconnection.org/its-tough-being-an-orca-mum/) - New research in the journal Scientific Reports shows Northern resident female orca mothers sacrifice so much energy parenting and feeding their male offspring that it drastically reduces their chances of raising another calf again, as their sons are so much needier than daughters. Around eighteen months of pregnancy, up to two years of nursing, then hunting and sharing
- [Study shows grey seals bite both porpoises and dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/study-shows-grey-seals-bite-both-porpoises-and-dolphins/) - A team of researchers from Utrecht University and UK partners has provided the first scientific evidence that grey seals can injure dolphin species — not just porpoises — in the North Sea.The study, published in Diseases of Aquatic Organisms, suggests that grey seals may have a broader ecological impact on small cetaceans than previously recognised.
- [The World Whale Film Festival 2026](https://marineconnection.org/the-world-whale-film-festival-2026/) - The World Whale Film Festival celebrates whales around the globe through powerful short films that spark ocean awareness and inspire action for a better, bluer future. Bringing together filmmakers from across the world, the festival showcases compelling storytelling that highlights the beauty of whales and the urgent need to protect them. Marine Connection was delighted
- [Squiggle and Squashy on Winterwatch 2026](https://marineconnection.org/squiggle-and-squashy-on-winterwatch-2026/) - It was encouraging to see *Winterwatch 2026 broadcast live this week from the Mount Stewart estate on the shores of Strangford Lough, Northern Ireland, feature the resident bottlenose dolphins Squiggle and Squashy. Squiggle, identifiable by the distinctive markings on his dorsal fin, originates from the Moray Firth dolphin population in Scotland. Both dolphins have been
- [Update on Wikie and Keijo, Marineland, Antibes](https://marineconnection.org/update-on-wikie-and-keijo-marineland-antibes/) - As the future of the last two captive orcas in France remains under discussion, although no final decisions have been made at this stage, our colleagues at One Voice are sounding the alarm with deep concern. Marineland in France is reportedly considering sending Wikie and her son Keijo across the ocean to SeaWorld Orlando, a
- [Honey passes away at Dolfinarium Harderwijk](https://marineconnection.org/honey-passes-away-at-dolfinarium-harderwijk/) - Dolphin Honey was recently euthanised due to declining health at Dolfinarium Harderwijk in the Netherlands. Wild-caught in 1970 from the Gulf of Mexico waters, Honey was one of the last dolphins to be held at Windsor Safari Park in England. Along with the other dolphins, including Smartie and Lulu, Honey was sold and transferred to
- [Bath Half Marathon, 15 March 2026 - support a cause that matters!](https://marineconnection.org/bath-half-marathon-15-march-2026-support-a-cause-that-matters/) - Run the iconic Bath Half Marathon and make every mile count for dolphins and whales. Perfect for all abilities, this fast, flat, traffic-free course winds through this beautiful historic city - one of the most scenic city races in the country. Join Marine Connection at the 2026 Bath Half and run to support marine wildlife
- [Dolphin calf rescued on Florida Beach](https://marineconnection.org/dolphin-calf-rescued-on-florida-beach/) - At only two months old, this baby dolphin will, in all probability, never see the ocean again. Recently found stranded on New Smyrna Beach, Florida, he was transported to SeaWorld’s Hubbs facility. His mother was nowhere to be seen. The male calf is receiving round-the-clock care but remains in critical condition. Even if rehabilitation is
- [The family that Katina really belonged to](https://marineconnection.org/the-family-that-katina-really-belonged-to/) - SeaWorld Orlando recently announced the death of Katina, a captive killer whale who spent most of her nearly 50 years in marine parks. The company stated that her health had “begun to significantly decline as she entered her geriatric years.” Katina was captured from Icelandic waters in 1978 and sold to Marineland in Niagara Falls,
- [Possible transfer of two orcas to Nova Scotia sanctuary](https://marineconnection.org/possible-transfer-of-two-orcas-to-nova-scotia-sanctuary/) - Almost a year after Marineland on the French Riviera closed - and following months of controversy over where the two remaining orcas would be relocated - we are delighted that the French government has confirmed it will work with the Whale Sanctuary Project to develop a plan to bring Wikie and Keijo to the Nova
- [Killer whales filmed hunting with dolphins and sharing prey for first time](https://marineconnection.org/killer-whales-filmed-hunting-with-dolphins-and-sharing-prey-for-first-time/) - Scientists have released incredible footage of northern transient killer whales following Pacific white-sided dolphins to help locate prey, then sharing the catch with them afterwards. The behaviour was recorded in the waters around Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada, and these interactions are not just chance encounters. Instead, the species appear to be working together to hunt
- [New children’s story to help families rethink marine parks](https://marineconnection.org/new-childrens-story-to-help-families-rethink-marine-parks/) - Marine Connection has teamed up with Sound AiSleep, the award-winning personalised audiobook studio, to create The Dolphin Sleepover — a gentle bedtime story for children aged 5–7. Through playful humour and imaginative storytelling, it helps young listeners understand what life in captivity is really like for dolphins, encouraging families to think about the difference between
- [New documentary on Keiko the orca](https://marineconnection.org/new-documentary-on-keiko-the-orca/) - Discover the extraordinary true story behind the world’s most iconic whale in a powerful new documentary co-produced by Sky. Tracing Keiko’s incredible journey from his capture in Icelandic waters in 1979 to his groundbreaking rehabilitation across Mexico, the U.S., Iceland, and Norway, the series reveals the life of the orca who captured hearts worldwide as
- [Captive dolphins face a journey they never chose](https://marineconnection.org/captive-dolphins-face-a-journey-they-never-chose/) - In December 2024, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Florida, applied to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for a permit to import 5 bottlenose dolphins from Attica Zoological Park, Greece. The application drew significant opposition from animal welfare groups, including Marine Connection. At the time, we urged everyone to voice opposition to this transfer immediately; it has
- [Proposed wild capture of dolphins in the Solomon Islands](https://marineconnection.org/proposed-wild-capture-of-dolphins-in-the-solomon-islands/) - We have received alarming reports from colleagues in the United States indicating that the *Solomon Islands government is being asked to authorise the capture of 50 wild dolphins for the international captivity trade. If approved, these highly intelligent marine mammals would be removed from their ocean homes and sold to facilities around the world. We
- [New dolphinarium at Beauval Zoo, France](https://marineconnection.org/new-dolphinarium-at-beauval-zoo-france/) - In November 2025, the French government announced support for a new Centre for Dolphin Research, Scientific Study and Rescue at Beauval Zoo - set to open in March/April 2027. The facility will house 20–30 bottlenose dolphins in seven artificial seawater pools, likely relocating 11 dolphins from Planète Sauvage and possibly some from Marineland Antibes. The
- [Protecting Antarctica’s fragile marine life](https://marineconnection.org/protecting-antarcticas-fragile-marine-life/) - We are delighted to report that from April 2026, Holland & Barrett will no longer source or sell krill-based products. Why? Because krill fishing harms whales, penguins, seals, and the delicate Southern Ocean ecosystem. The company will instead guide customers towards sustainable omega-3 alternatives that offer the same benefits without threatening Antarctic wildlife, such as
- [Sanctuary enforcement lacking in Tenerife](https://marineconnection.org/sanctuary-enforcement-lacking-in-tenerife/) - The Teno-Rasca Marine Conservation Zone, situated off the western coast of Tenerife, Spain, encompasses approximately 70,000 hectares of protected ocean. This unique sanctuary is home to resident populations of pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins, as well as migratory species and several types of sea turtles. In theory, strict regulations prohibit swimming with or chasing whales
- [Dive Into Dreamland with “Alfred and the Blue Whale”](https://marineconnection.org/dive-into-dreamland-with-alfred-and-the-blue-whale/) - We’re delighted to announce our new partnership with Sound AiSleep—creators of a unique app that brings bedtime stories to life in the most comforting voice of all: yours. With just a quick 2.5-minute voice recording, you can transform any story into a cosy, personalised audiobook—lovingly told in your own voice, even when you're far away
- [Another yacht sunk in ongoing orca encounters off Iberian coast](https://marineconnection.org/another-yacht-sunk-in-ongoing-orca-encounters-off-iberian-coast/) - A family of five narrowly escaped disaster last week after their yacht was sunk by orcas off the coast of Portugal, marking the second such incident in a month. The attack occurred in broad daylight near Fonte da Telha, where a pod of Iberian orcas struck the yacht’s rudder—a now-familiar pattern in this growing maritime
- [Where the waves remember Fungie](https://marineconnection.org/where-the-waves-remember-fungie/) - It’s now been five years since Fungie, the world-famous bottlenose dolphin, was last seen in the waters of Dingle, Ireland. First appearing in 1983, Fungie captured hearts both locally and internationally by choosing to live alone yet interact daily with humans in Dingle Bay for nearly four decades. Then, one day in 2020, he vanished—never
- [Marineland belugas - open letter to Premier Ford](https://marineconnection.org/marineland-belugas-open-letter-to-premier-ford/) - Marineland in Niagara Falls is once again making headlines — not for progress, but for pressure. The theme park has issued a disturbing public statement, claiming it may euthanise its remaining 30 beluga whales if the federal government does not provide emergency funding. This kind of threatening language is not only abhorrent — it’s part
- [Miami Seaquarium to permanently close](https://marineconnection.org/miami-seaquarium-to-permanently-close/) - After seven decades as a major South Florida attraction, the Miami Seaquarium is officially closing its doors this weekend - marking the end of a facility long criticised for its treatment of marine animals. The death in 2023 of the park's only remaining orca, Lolita, sparked renewed calls for the closure of the facility. The
- [Independent investigation into Mediterraneo, Malta](https://marineconnection.org/investigation-into-mediterraneo-malta-ordered-by-minister/) - Marine Connection has long campaigned and raised awareness about the concerning conditions at Mediterraneo Marine Park, particularly following the tragic deaths of three female dolphins due to lead poisoning. More recently, we jointly launched the Waves not Walls initiative — a collaborative effort between NGOs and individuals — to further highlight the appalling conditions the
- [Three captive dolphins injured during transport](https://marineconnection.org/three-captive-dolphins-injured-during-transport/) - A newly released USDA report has revealed that three bottlenose dolphins—Striker, Cajun, and Luna—sustained injuries during a 13-hour transport from Gulf World Marine Park to *Dolphin Connection in Duck Key, Florida. The dolphins suffered moderate to deep abrasions, cuts, and lesions caused by the body support devices used during the move. These injuries were not
- [Hanover event : TUI please stop promoting dolphin and whale shows](https://marineconnection.org/hanover-event-tui-please-stop-promoting-dolphin-and-whale-shows/) - Today, Marine Connection, in a joint effort with 20 leading animal welfare organisations from across Europe, united in a powerful demonstration outside the headquarters of TUI Group in Hanover. The coalition delivered a clear message: TUI must stop selling and promoting captive dolphin and whale entertainment. Despite growing scientific evidence and public opposition to keeping
- [Rise in dolphin and whale strandings in Scotland](https://marineconnection.org/rise-in-dolphin-and-whale-strandings-in-scotland/) - The number of whales and dolphins getting stranded on the Scottish coastline has increased at an exponential rate over the last 30 years. Researchers from the University of Glasgow analysed data from 5,147 marine mammals stranded between 1992 and 2022. The study marks the first time scientists have been able to quantify the scale of
- [Urgent appeal to end promotion supporting dolphin captivity](https://marineconnection.org/urgent-appeal-to-end-promotion-supporting-dolphin-captivity/) - Many companies participate in promoting attractions that keep dolphins in captivity. As part of the Wave not Walls campaign, we are asking Malta's leading supermarkets, Greens, to take a strong stance for animal welfare by ending their partnership promotion with Mediterraneo Marine Park, which offers discounts to Greens loyalty card holders for entrance and dolphin
- [Saying NO to Mediterraneo](https://marineconnection.org/saying-no-to-mediterraneo/) - Today, Marine Connection stood in solidarity with protestors outside Mediterraneo Marine Park, Malta, to raise awareness of the dolphins held captive inside. These intelligent, sentient beings are forced to perform the same repetitive tricks day after day—not for joy, but for food rewards. Visitors come and go, enjoying fleeting entertainment, but the dolphins are trapped.
- [Dolphins at Mediterraneo Marine Park are suffering — they need your help](https://marineconnection.org/dolphins-at-mediterraneo-marine-park-are-suffering-they-need-your-help/) - Marine Connection recently reviewed footage of the five dolphins held at Mediterraneo Marine Park, Malta. Disturbingly, it is clear that nothing has improved for these marine mammals. During the summer months, temperatures can reach 30°C. While shade has been thoughtfully provided for the public seating around the interaction tank – indicating the facility’s awareness of
- [Waves NOT Walls](https://marineconnection.org/waves-not-walls/) - Marine Connection continues its urgent campaign to raise awareness about the plight of the dolphins held at Mediterraneo Marine Park, Malta. This Saturday, 2nd August, there will be a peaceful protest outside the facility to shine a light on the suffering these intelligent marine mammals endure in confinement — barren tanks, dirty water, and no
- [CONFI the dolphin has died](https://marineconnection.org/confi-the-dolphin-has-died/) - We are deeply saddened to report that solitary sociable dolphin CONFI (also known as Manoliño) has been confirmed dead. Since his appearance in 2019, this male dolphin has stayed in various areas of Galicia, Spain, but primarily in the Ría de Muros-Noia. Like most sociable bottlenose dolphins, he became habituated over time. In June of
- [South Korean facility closing?](https://marineconnection.org/south-korean-facility-closing/) - News is being circulated that Geoje Sea World, South Korea is considering shutting down operations due to operational difficulties following recent amendments to the Act on the Management of Zoos and Aquariums, as well as a drop in the number of visitors participating in various programs - interacting with dolphins and beluga whales up close,
- [No sign of recovery for southern resident orcas](https://marineconnection.org/no-sign-of-recovery-for-southern-resident-orcas/) - A new report just published, “Strengthening Recovery Actions for Southern Resident Killer Whales” says a population of endangered killer whales off the coast of British Columbia and Washington state is showing no sign of recovery under current conditions and that there is an urgent need for more robust actions to save the southern resident killer
- [CAPTIVE - Part 1, released now](https://marineconnection.org/captive-part-1-released-now/) - Marine Connection has been working with natural history filmmaker and photographer Ben Gibson on his film ‘CAPTIVE’ – a powerful documentary film that delves into the controversial issue of orcas in captivity. Part 1 has now been released, exploring the profound physical and psychological effects of confinement on these highly intelligent marine mammals and examining
- [World Day For Captive Dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/world-day-for-captive-dolphins-2/) - World Day for Captive Dolphins takes place on July 4th every year to commemorate the 3,000+ dolphins living in captivity worldwide, as well as those that continue to be taken from the wild for public entertainment. Confined in concrete tanks or sea pens, captive dolphins lead unnatural lives and are deprived of everything they need
- [Celebrating World Oceans Day!](https://marineconnection.org/celebrating-world-oceans-day/) - Every year on June 8th, people around the world come together to celebrate World Oceans Day, a moment to honour the vast, life-giving oceans that cover over 70% of our planet! When celebrating, we are reminded of our responsibility to protect ocean health and consider the actions we take to protect it. Why World Oceans
- [Over 200 organisations - one urgent call](https://marineconnection.org/over-200-organisations-one-urgent-call/) - Just days before the UN Ocean Conference, a global coalition of more than 200 marine conservation and environmental organisations, climate action coalitions and environmental justice groups from around the world, including Marine Connection, have published an open letter addressed to governments, demanding to: 🛑 Stop offshore oil and gas exploration and exploitation. 🌊 Commit to ambitious,
- [Time to phase out fossil fuels](https://marineconnection.org/time-to-phase-out-fossil-fuels/) - Today, as part of a coalition of more than 100 environmental organisations from six continents, Marine Connection is supporting an open letter by OceanCare, calling on governments to include a commitment to ban the search for new oil and gas deposits in the seabed and phase out existing extraction in the final declaration of the
- [Man sentenced to one month for shooting dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/man-sentenced-to-one-month-for-shooting-dolphins/) - A Florida fisherman has been sentenced to 30 days’ imprisonment and ordered to pay a $51,000 fine for three counts of poisoning and shooting dolphins because they were stealing from the lines of his charter fishing clients. Despite knowing the marine mammals are protected, he shot and killed one anyway, in front of children. Zackery
- [Orcas spotted hanging out with baby pilot whales](https://marineconnection.org/orcas-spotted-hanging-out-with-baby-pilot-whales/) - An unusual encounter with a group of orcas near Iceland led researchers to discover a new and complex behaviour – the orcas had taken in baby pilot whales, and not necessarily to eat them. Scientists watched two encounters between the orcas and several weeks-old baby pilot whales in 2022 and 2023. They examined an earlier
- [New film trailer](https://marineconnection.org/new-film-trailer/) - For the past 8 months, Marine Connection has been working with Ben Gibson, a marine and natural history filmmaker and photographer who has just finished his 3rd year at Falmouth University in the UK. Ben has been working on his film, CAPTIVE, which addresses the subject of orcas in captivity, and comparing that to the
- [Mexican dolphin facility closed down](https://marineconnection.org/mexican-dolphin-facility-closed-down/) - We are pleased to report that the dolphin facility at Barceló Maya Grand Resort in Mexico, operated by Dolphinaris and owned by the Dolphin Company, has permanently closed. This follows a dedicated awareness campaign by colleagues at Dolphin Freedom, exposing serious welfare issues for the dolphins. Marine Connection supported their efforts by contacting Mexico’s Federal Attorney
- [Dolphin Assisted Therapy launched in Cuba](https://marineconnection.org/dolphin-assisted-therapy-launched-in-cuba/) - Many countries are making strides in improving animal welfare, with some enacting stronger laws, banning certain practices like keeping dolphins and whales in captivity. Sadly, Cuba is not one and its government and as part of its commitment to medical tourism, has launched a new dolphin-assisted therapy programme at a facility on Cayo Guillermo, aimed
- [OCEAN with David Attenborough](https://marineconnection.org/ocean-with-david-attenborough/) - OCEAN is a new film that takes viewers on a breathtaking journey, showing that there is nowhere more vital for our survival, full of life, wonder, or surprise, than the ocean. In cinemas from May 8th across the UK and Ireland (and in 25 countries around the world) - coincidentally, the same day as the
- [Uncertain future for belugas at Marineland, Canada](https://marineconnection.org/uncertain-future-for-belugas-at-marineland-canada/) - Marine Connection has joined 28 animal welfare organisations in Canada/USA and globally, supporting a joint letter by IMMP to the Canadian Minister of Fisheries and Oceans regarding the future of the 31 beluga whales at Marineland, Canada. With Marineland's approval to divide the property and redevelop the site, the whales, the last remaining belugas in
- [Cause of dolphin deaths in Florida Lagoon finally solved](https://marineconnection.org/cause-of-dolphin-deaths-in-florida-lagoon-finally-solved/) - In 2013, 8 percent of the bottlenose dolphins living in Florida’s Indian River Lagoon perished. New investigations have revealed that the highly intelligent marine mammals may have starved because their hunting grounds were destroyed by a phytoplankton bloom produced by human activity, as the initial trigger. Crucial underwater habitats were killed off, leading to a
- [Future is bleak for orca calf at Loro Parque](https://marineconnection.org/future-is-bleak-for-orca-calf-at-loro-parque/) - Morgan, the only female orca at Loro Parque on the Spanish island of Tenerife, has given birth for the second time; this time, it's a male. Morgan's first calf, who was female and named Ula, was separated from Morgan shortly after birth and died at the facility before her third birthday. At Loro Parque, four
- [Makah whale hunt permit application](https://marineconnection.org/makah-whale-hunt-permit-application/) - The Makah Tribe has submitted a permit application to NOAA Fisheries that, if approved, will allow it to hunt up to 25 eastern North Pacific gray whales over 10 years, starting as soon as this summer and another whale killing in 2027. The Makah Tribe voluntarily gave up tribal hunting in 1928 because commercial whaling
- [Help stop dolphin transfer from Greece to USA](https://marineconnection.org/help-stop-dolphin-transfer-from-greece-to-usa/) - The permit deadline to move five dolphins from Attica Park Zoo (APZ) in Greece to Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA), Florida is fast approaching, and to move these animals across the Atlantic to yet another facility where they will be housed in tanks for public display is in our opinion, detrimental to their welfare, causing ongoing
- [Wild solitary dolphin to remain in captivity](https://marineconnection.org/wild-solitary-dolphin-to-remain-in-captivity/) - Marine Connection is very disappointed to learn that a social solitary female bottlenose dolphin that had been frequenting waters off Texas for some years is to remain in captivity for the remainder of her life. Nicknamed Izzy, the dolphin was initially taken into Texas State Aquarium at the end of June having suffered injuries and
- [Whale pee moves vital nutrients thousands of miles](https://marineconnection.org/whale-pee-moves-vital-nutrients-thousands-of-miles/) - A recent study has revealed whales including right whales, gray whales, and humpbacks transport vital nutrients from urine, placentas, carcasses, and sloughing skin across oceans that help to keep marine ecosystems healthy. This involves travelling from high-latitude (polar) areas such as Alaska and Antarctica to low-nutrient tropical grounds such as Hawaii and the Caribbean. Therefore,
- [St Vincent whalers end hunting of orcas](https://marineconnection.org/st-vincent-whalers-end-hunting-of-orcas/) - After 10 years plus, the whalers of Barrouallie have decided to stop the hunt of orcas, an issue Marine Connection has been addressing for some years. We are therefore delighted that these marine mammals will now be able to pass through the waters of St. Vincent and the Grenadines safely. In return for this decision,
- [Disney Cruise Line - be the wave of change](https://marineconnection.org/disney-cruise-line-be-the-wave-of-change/) - Disney Cruise Line (The Walt Disney Company subsidiary) sells onshore excursions to passengers, including closely interacting with dolphins in captive facilities around the Caribbean, Bermuda and Mexico. The company currently operates six ships, their newest to join the fleet being Disney Treasures, launched in December 2024, with a capacity of 4,000 passengers - meaning that
- [China now holds more orcas in captivity than the USA](https://marineconnection.org/china-now-holds-more-orcas-in-captivity-than-the-usa/) - China Cetacean Alliance (CCA) — a coalition of international and Chinese animal welfare organisations has released its third edition of OCEAN THEME PARKS: China’s Growing Captive Cetacean Industry (2019-2024). Worryingly, China now holds more orcas in captivity than the United States, the number currently stands at 22. As of July 2024, there were 101 captive
- [Are Wikie and Keijo headed for Loro Parque?](https://marineconnection.org/are-wikie-and-keijo-headed-for-loro-parque/) - In December 2024, Marine Connection sent a letter supported by 33 organisations to the French Government urging them to retire Wikie and her son Keijo, the two remaining orcas at Marineland, France, to a seaside sanctuary and not to Loro Parque in the Canary Islands. We also commended Mme Agnès Pannier-Runacher, Minister of the Ministry
- [New law takes effect to protect southern resident orca population](https://marineconnection.org/new-law-takes-effect-to-protect-southern-resident-orca-population/) - With the unfortunate news of the recent death of a newborn female orca within the beloved southern resident orca population, we welcome new rules now in place to ensure boaters in Washington waters remain 1,000 yards away from this vulnerable population. The new rules, passed by the state Legislature in 2023 and took effect from
- [Whale meat imported into Finland for dog food](https://marineconnection.org/whale-meat-imported-into-finland-for-dog-food/) - Finnish Customs has completed a preliminary investigation of the suspected illegal import of around 36,000 kilogrammes of whale meat from Norway to Finland in 2022. The meat was imported in the form of sausages, which contained a mixture of minke whale meat and poultry. A private operator ordered the shipment in 2022 and was being
- [Death of yet another solitary dolphin](https://marineconnection.org/death-of-yet-another-solitary-dolphin/) - Marine Connection is saddened to report the death of a female solitary, sociable common dolphin, Luca, who frequented Danish waters. First sighted in April 2020 around Aalborg, over the summer months she moved to various locations including Feggsund, however by September 2020 the dolphin remained mainly at Sundby Harbour before disappearing for 3 weeks from Christmas
- [Remarkable journey of a humpback whale](https://marineconnection.org/remarkable-journey-of-a-humpback-whale/) - A male humpback has set a record for the longest migration between feeding and breeding grounds in different oceans — travelling more than 13,000 kilometres between South America and Africa. In 2013, the male humpback was spotted in the Gulf of Tribugá in the Pacific Ocean off Columbia, in 2017, he was sighted again, less
- [Ship collision risk threatens whales across the world's oceans](https://marineconnection.org/ship-collision-risk-threatens-whales-across-the-worlds-oceans/) - A new study shows “hotspots” where most ship collisions occur with whales in the world’s oceans and the lack of protection for the majestic giants. Global shipping traffic overlaps with about 92% of habitat ranges for blue, fin, humpback, and sperm whales, particularly the large container vessels that ferry 80% of the world’s traded goods
- [Dolphins die at Gulf World Marine Park](https://marineconnection.org/dolphins-die-at-gulf-world-marine-park/) - Three bottlenose dolphins have died at Gulf World Marine Park, Florida, within a month, Turk 15, Gus 14, and Nate who was 20. The facility was purchased in 2015 by The Dolphin Company who have a worldwide presence and dolphins in various locations including North America and The Caribbean. Most of their marine parks are
- [Remembering Fungie the Dingle dolphin](https://marineconnection.org/remembering-fungie-the-dingle-dolphin/) - As a child, I was truly fascinated by our oceans. Over 30 years ago, I encountered a wild, solitary, sociable dolphin known as Fungie in Dingle Bay, Ireland. I wanted to make marine conservation a large part of my life and do more to protect these incredible marine mammals. I remember my first sight of
- [Reducing Bay of Biscay dolphin deaths](https://marineconnection.org/reducing-bay-of-biscay-dolphin-deaths/) - The EU Commission has adopted a delegated act establishing measures in the Bay of Biscay by 2025 to prevent incidental catches of dolphins and other small cetaceans in fisheries. Unless the European Parliament or the Council objects within the next two months, it will enter into force to close the Bay of Biscay to fishing
- [Necropsy results on death of beluga whale Hvaldimir](https://marineconnection.org/necropsy-results-on-death-of-beluga-whale-hvaldimir/) - A final post-mortem examination by Norway’s Veterinary Institute has concluded that Hvaldimir’s probable cause of death was bacterial infection, possibly due to a wound in the mouth from a 14-inch lodged stick which may have led to Hvaldimir having difficulties eating, absorbing nutrients and increasing the risk of infection. There have been no findings from
- [Krill belongs to whales, not humans](https://marineconnection.org/krill-belongs-to-whales-not-humans/) - The Southern Ocean encircling Antarctica is the world’s largest feeding ground for whales such as the humpback, fin and blue. Still, a new threat is emerging for these giants - industrial fishing for Antarctic krill which these mighty marine mammals depend on for survival. 10 to 12 large trawlers from Chile, China, Norway, South Korea
- [Cetacean Bycatch in New Zealand waters](https://marineconnection.org/cetacean-bycatch-in-new-zealand-waters/) - A new report from New Zealand's Department of Conservation shows dolphins and whales need more protection from deadly fishing gear, even in areas designed to protect the marine mammals from such impacts. July 2022 through June 2023 saw 109 deaths, including common, dusky and Hector's dolphins and an orca. All victims of the fishing industry
- [Company fined for orca disturbance](https://marineconnection.org/company-fined-for-orca-disturbance/) - An investigation by the Federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) has resulted in a hefty fine for a Vancouver film company and drone operator caught flying too close to northern resident killer whales in 2021. On July 2, 2024, River Road Films Ltd. pleaded guilty to unlawfully capturing drone footage of the whales at
- [No Tanks TUI - united in Berlin against dolphinaria](https://marineconnection.org/no-tanks-tui-united-in-berlin-against-dolphinaria/) - Today, 1 August 2024, we joined forces with 14 other animal welfare organisations across 9 countries, uniting at TUI Group’s offices in Berlin to show there is support across Europe for them to stop selling tickets to captive dolphin venues. Over recent years many travel companies have chosen to stop the promotion of this type
- [Why the Moray Firth dolphins are magical](https://marineconnection.org/why-the-moray-firth-dolphins-are-magical/) - For several years Marine Connection has been supporting a campaign by young cetacean advocate Olivia Mandle, #Noespaisparadelfines, asking the Spanish Government for the scheduled closure of all dolphin parks in Spain. Olivia recently visited the Moray Firth, Scotland where she had the pleasure of seeing the most northerly population of wild bottlenose dolphins for the
- [Iceland to continue whale hunts](https://marineconnection.org/iceland-to-continue-whale-hunts/) - In a massive step backwards Iceland's government have granted Hvalur hf. a whaling licence for 2024. This will enable the company to hunt a total of 128 fin whales - 99 animals in the Greenland-West Iceland area, and 29 animals in the East Iceland-Faroe Islands area. Despite widespread criticism of the practice, Minister of Fisheries
- [2024 measures to protect Southern Resident killer whales](https://marineconnection.org/2024-measures-to-protect-southern-resident-killer-whales/) - The Government of Canada have announced a series of measures to protect Southern Resident killer whales to try and restore population numbers. The measures, aimed at protecting the whales from noise, contaminants and improving their access to prey (they are fish eaters with a preference for Chinook) include the continued requirement for vessels to stay
- [New study confirms amazing orca fact](https://marineconnection.org/new-study-confirms-amazing-orca-fact/) - A new study using drone footage and biological data from tags suction-cupped to 11 northern and southern resident killer whales off the coast of British Columbia has confirmed a long-held assumption. Orcas take only one breath between their dives. Published in PLOS ONE the study found that the whales spend most of their time making
- [TUI must stop selling tickets to marine parks](https://marineconnection.org/tui-must-stop-selling-tickets-to-marine-parks/) - Marine Connection has joined other animal protection organisations including PETA, the RSPCA, World Animal Protection, Born Free Foundation, World Cetacean Alliance, Humane Society International UK and Whale and Dolphin Conservation, writing to TUI’s managing director Andrew Flintham, calling for the company to stop selling tickets to marine parks such as SeaWorld that keep whales and
- [New report on USA whale entanglement in fishing gear](https://marineconnection.org/new-report-on-usa-whale-entanglement-in-fishing-gear/) - According to a recently released report, 27 large whales were entangled by United States fishing gear off the coast of Washington, Oregon, California or other countries like Mexico in 2023. Humpback whales continue to be the most common species of whale entangled with 16 separate confirmed entanglements last year. Nine gray whales and two transient
- [Accelerating decline in southern resident orca population](https://marineconnection.org/accelerating-decline-in-southern-resident-orca-population/) - A new study recently released on the current state of the southern resident killer whales (SRKW) shows the population could decline by one whale each year, before hurtling toward extinction. Only 74 SRKW exist despite being listed as a species at risk in Canada since 2005. The study highlights the idea of dark vs bright
- [Jet2holidays cease sales to marine parks](https://marineconnection.org/jet2holidays-cease-sales-to-marine-parks/) - We are delighted to report the news that as of 27 March, Jet2 Holidays has agreed to stop selling tickets to marine parks or promoting this to their customers. Jet2 joins a list of other tour operators who no longer support the keeping of dolphins and whales in captivity for entertainment, it is our sincere hope
- [Beluga whale returned to Georgia Aquarium](https://marineconnection.org/beluga-whale-returned-to-georgia-aquarium/) - 14-year-old male beluga whale Nunavik has been returned to the Atlanta facility after spending some time at SeaWorld Orlando. Male beluga whale Oliver, born in 2007 at SeaWorld San Antonio and then held at SeaWorld Orlando, has been moved to SeaWorld San Diego. The movement of these two whales now means no beluga whales are
- [Free Willy, Keiko and the future for captive cetaceans](https://marineconnection.org/free-willy-keiko-and-the-future-for-captive-cetaceans/) - 30 years ago this month, Free Willy premiered in the UK. The film is about a captive orca named Willy whose plight is recognised by a young boy. It has strong anti-captivity vibes and exposes some of the negatives of keeping cetaceans in tanks. At the end of the film, Willy is returned to the
- [Report exposes decline in migratory species](https://marineconnection.org/report-exposes-decline-in-migratory-species/) - According to a new United Nations report, nearly half of the world’s migratory species are in decline. The list includes whales because they are one of many species that migrate to different environments with changing seasons and are imperilled by habitat loss, illegal hunting and fishing, pollution and climate change. Habitat loss or other threats
- [Dolphin sale to China blocked](https://marineconnection.org/dolphin-sale-to-china-blocked/) - Since 2021, Marine Connection has been monitoring any possible move of eight captive dolphins from Dolfinarium Harderwijk in the Netherlands to a facility in China. Due to concerns over the ongoing welfare and care of the marine mammals if they are to be relocated to Hainan Ocean Paradise in China, Dutch Minister of Agriculture, Nature
- [Important legislation to end whale captivity in the USA](https://marineconnection.org/important-legislation-to-end-whale-captivity-in-the-usa/) - On January 31, 2024, U.S. Senator Ron Wyden reintroduced legislation that would end the future capture and breeding of whales for public display in the USA. The legislation explicitly targets orcas, beluga, pilot and false killer whales who are cognitively, emotionally, and socially complex animals which, studies have shown, cannot thrive in captivity. The Strengthening
- [Is orca Morgan pregnant?](https://marineconnection.org/is-orca-morgan-pregnant/) - Rumours have been circulating regarding the potential pregnancy of the orca known as Morgan, held at Loro Parque, Tenerife. As many will be aware, Morgan lost her first calf Ula, born in 2018, who died at the facility in 2021, at only just under 3 years old. Loro Parque has not, as yet, confirmed or
- [Orca calf dies at Moskvarium, Russia](https://marineconnection.org/orca-calf-dies-at-moskvarium-russia/) - Born on December 29, 2023, less than a month later, the youngster was dead - the cause of death is reported to be decompensation due to a congenital heart defect that could not be diagnosed. Mother Naya was wild-caught from Russian waters 10 years ago, taken from her family pod and now left alone to
- [Letter to French Authorities regarding Marineland orcas](https://marineconnection.org/letter-to-french-authorities-regarding-marineland-orcas/) - A letter of concern over plans for the three remaining orcas at Marineland, Antibes has been sent by the Dolphinaria-Free Europe coalition, to Monsieur Christophe Béchu, Minister of Ecology and Madame Sarah El Haïry, Secretary of State for Biodiversity raising our concerns over the proposed move of orcas Inouk, Wikie, and Keijo, from France to
- [Marineland orcas move postponed](https://marineconnection.org/marineland-orcas-move-postponed/) - Following our previous report on the impending move of three orcas from Marineland, Antibes to Japan, we are pleased to report that the ongoing campaign continues to act as a powerful voice for these orcas. We have continued to support our colleagues at One Voice, in their effort to have this move stopped and, following
- [Former Miami Seaquarium veterinarian speaks out](https://marineconnection.org/former-miami-seaquarium-veterinarian-speaks-out/) - Former veterinarian for the Miami Seaquarium Dr. Jenna Wallace, recently spoke out after another inspection report revealed repeat violations found at the attraction, including dolphin pools in disrepair, high counts of bacteria in the water where marine mammals are kept, and numerous areas of black mould growth, as well as bubbling of paint within the
- [Marineland, Antibes latest](https://marineconnection.org/marineland-antibes-latest/) - With ongoing concerns over conditions for the dolphins and orcas at Marineland, Antibes, reports have been received from our colleagues One Voice, on the death of a dolphin calf at the facility. Born on 23 December the young dolphin survived for just 2 days. We are also deeply worried over the apparent decision by French
- [South Korea facilities can no longer purchase cetaceans for display](https://marineconnection.org/south-korea-facilities-can-no-longer-purchase-cetaceans-for-display/) - Starting today, 14 December 2023, aquariums in South Korea holding captive dolphins and whales are banned from purchasing new cetaceans for display. Most of the 16 bottlenose dolphins within the four facilities in South Korea are wild-caught from Taiji, Japan and all five beluga whales are wild-caught from Russian waters. The announcement was made earlier
- [TUI to continue selling captive dolphin excursions](https://marineconnection.org/tui-to-continue-selling-captive-dolphin-excursions/) - TUI UK has confirmed it will continue to sell excursions to venues with captive dolphins. TUI UK and Ireland managing director Andrew Flintham told TTG Media that the company would not stop selling the attractions to around 25 venues currently holding approximately 400 dolphins as they believe it’s the consumer’s choice whether they want to
- [Portugal failing to protect dolphins from fisheries bycatch](https://marineconnection.org/portugal-failing-to-protect-dolphins-from-fisheries-bycatch/) - The European Commission recently opened an infringement procedure (legal action) against Portugal for failing to adopt measures to prevent the bycatch of dolphin species by fishing vessels. The Portuguese authorities now have until mid-January 2024 to respond adequately to the issues raised in the letter of formal notice. If this is not the case, the
- [First global navigational aid to protect whales launched](https://marineconnection.org/first-global-navigational-aid-to-protect-whales-launched/) - Accidental collisions between ships and whales are a global concern and can occur wherever there is an overlap between whale activity and vessel traffic. Collisions are one of the leading causes of severe injury and death in cetaceans worldwide. It is estimated that around 20,000 cases of fatal ship strikes occur each year. Whales and
- [Talking solitary, sociable dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/talking-solitary-sociable-dolphins/) - Marine Mammal Science is a podcast covering some of the latest scientific research on marine mammals – including whales and dolphins. Liz Sandeman from Marine Connection recently spoke to one of the hosts Dr Chris Parsons about the phenomenon of social, solitary dolphins and why habituation is the biggest threat these individual cetaceans face. Whilst
- [UK Government rejects new legislation for marine mammals](https://marineconnection.org/uk-government-rejects-new-legislation-for-marine-mammals/) - Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has rejected cross-party MP calls for primary legislation to be introduced to improve the protection of marine mammals (such as dolphins and whales) in UK waters, to bring it into line with standards provided by other countries. In June of this year, The Environment, Food and Rural
- [New documentary on cetacean captivity](https://marineconnection.org/new-documentary-on-cetacean-captivity/) - A documentary film from Reiwa, featuring animal behavioural psychologist, long-term colleague and campaigner Jakub Banasiak, discusses the continued take of dolphins from the wild in Japan and other areas to supply marine parks, the dramatic impact captivity has on these highly social marine mammals, and general mis-education of the general public by this industry. The
- [Urging Jet2holidays to drop marine parks](https://marineconnection.org/urging-jet2holidays-to-drop-marine-parks/) - Marine Connection recently joined scientists, conservationists, and several organisations specialising in cetacean welfare in urging Jet2holidays (a British package holiday provider and tour operator) to stop selling tickets to facilities that keep dolphins and whales in confinement. While customers of Jet2holidays are enjoying their package breaks in the many destinations the company offers, dozens of
- [Orca Moana dies at Marineland, France](https://marineconnection.org/orca-moana-dies-at-marineland-france/) - Marineland in the south of France has announced the sudden death of 12-year-old male orca Moana. A postmortem examination has been carried out to help determine the cause of death, initial results will be known in the coming weeks. However, for some time, there has been ongoing concern over the unsuitable conditions in which all
- [Russian facility confirms captive orca pregnancy](https://marineconnection.org/russian-facility-confirms-captive-orca-pregnancy/) - Moskvarium has reported that wild-caught orca, Naya is 15 months into her pregnancy and due to give birth in December. According to the Moskvarium veterinary service, Naya became pregnant naturally, if so, this would mean the father is Nord, who died in June 2023. Since opening in 2015, the facility at one point held three
- [New UK Bill must include dolphin and whale attractions](https://marineconnection.org/new-uk-bill-must-include-dolphin-and-whale-attractions/) - Marine Connection were thrilled the Animals (Low-Welfare Activities Abroad) Bill became law last month - effectively this will prohibit the domestic sale and promotion of wildlife experiences abroad that would be unacceptable here in the UK. Now, along with 23 other NGOs, we have written to the Secretary of State, calling on her to ensure
- [Orca entanglement in fishing gear](https://marineconnection.org/orca-entanglement-in-fishing-gear/) - This year to date, 10 killer whales have been incidentally caught in Alaska by the Bering Sea and Aleutian Island groundfish trawl fisheries and in its annual longline survey for sablefish and groundfish. In one of the incidents, one orca was released alive. NOAA Fisheries is currently analysing collected data from the other nine to
- [Animals (Low Welfare Activities Abroad) Bill passes final stage](https://marineconnection.org/animals-low-welfare-activities-abroad-bill-passes-final-stage/) - Given the importance of animal welfare and the work carried out globally by Marine Connection, we are delighted to report that the Animals (Low Welfare Activities Abroad) Bill passed its final stage in the House of Lords on September 18 2023. It will soon become law and is a huge step forward in helping to
- [Iceland to resume commercial whaling](https://marineconnection.org/iceland-to-resume-commercial-whaling/) - Very disappointing news. Iceland is to resume killing fin whales after the island’s government has allowed the hunt (which was temporarily banned in June due to animal welfare) to commence Friday September 1st. Minister of Fisheries Svandís Svavarsdóttir is to issue a new regulation on whaling to include stricter requirements on hunting methods and increased
- [Honouring Tokitae and protecting her kin](https://marineconnection.org/honouring-tokitae-and-protecting-her-kin/) - Yesterday, Sunday 27 August, a ceremony that was initially planned to celebrate the installation of a story pole in honour of the orca known as Tokitae, changed to a celebration of her life after she died on 18 August at Miami Seaquarium. Held on San Juan Island, Lummi Nation representatives gathered with others to remember
- [Sunday 27 August - remembering Tokitae](https://marineconnection.org/sunday-27-august-remembering-tokitae/) - We are deeply saddened by the way in which Lolita/Tokitae has been treated since her death. A necropsy was deemed necessary, however the body she occupied whilst on this earth should have been treated with respect. She was a living, sentient being - more than a commodity simply to be used in death as she
- [Illegal killing of minke whales in South Korea](https://marineconnection.org/illegal-killing-of-minke-whales-in-south-korea/) - Following a six-month investigation, 55 individuals were recently questioned in connection with an illegal whaling operation and the killing of 17 minke whales. 13 are now being held by the Coast Guard in Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province, facing charges of unlawfully killing the whales from January to June of this year. Using harpoons and spears
- [Former Mirage dolphin dies](https://marineconnection.org/former-mirage-dolphin-dies/) - In May of this year, three dolphins were moved from Siegfried and Roy's Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at the Mirage, Las Vegas, to a facility in the Caribbean. One has now died, Huf-N-Pu. She had been fighting an infection since arriving at Coral World Ocean Park in St. Thomas and is the fifth dolphin
- [Vaquita porpoise facing extinction](https://marineconnection.org/vaquita-porpoise-facing-extinction/) - The International Whaling Commission (IWC) recently released its first-ever extinction alert to warn of the potential danger facing the critically endangered vaquita porpoise. Its population has dramatically decreased from approx. 570 to 10 in a decade and the vaquita now hovers on the edge of extinction. This is mainly due to gillnets which although illegal
- [Dutch company ends partnership with dolphinarium](https://marineconnection.org/dutch-company-ends-partnership-with-dolphinarium/) - Marine Connection welcomes the news that the largest railway company in the Netherlands, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), is ending its long-standing commercial partnership with Dolfinarium Harderwijk. For many years NS has offered passengers the combination of a train ticket and entry to the Hardewijk facility, however after animal welfare concerns, NS will no longer offer the
- [Hector’s dolphin killed in fishing trawler](https://marineconnection.org/hectors-dolphin-killed-in-fishing-trawler/) - Another Hector’s dolphin has been caught in fishing gear - the second within two months. The marine mammal was accidentally caught by a commercial fishing trawler off the Canterbury coast, New Zealand’s South Island. Hector's dolphins are among the smallest dolphins in the world and are the only cetacean endemic to New Zealand. The largest
- [Dolphin Marine Conservation Park in Australia enters voluntary administration](https://marineconnection.org/dolphin-marine-conservation-park-in-australia-enters-voluntary-administration/) - The Dolphin Marine Conservation Park in Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, has been operating for over 50 years and has on public display various marine species including dolphins, penguins and sea turtles. If the facility closes, all of the animals will be rehomed at zoos and aquariums around the country and could see the dolphins
- [World Day for Captive Dolphins : 4 July 2023](https://marineconnection.org/world-day-for-captive-dolphins-4-july-2023/) - July 4th is World Day for Captive Dolphins - remembering the thousands confined around the world, many in barren tanks, forced to perform for the paying public yet suffering mentally and physically every day. Captive dolphins may look like they are smiling, but they're not. We do have some positive news to share, however. Online-only
- [Live Event - Captive Cetaceans, why and how to phase out their display in Europe](https://marineconnection.org/live-event-captive-cetaceans-why-and-how-to-phase-out-their-display-in-europe/) - Marine Connection is a proud member of Dolphinaria-Free Europe (DFE) – a coalition of NGOs and individuals working together to end the captivity of whales, dolphins and porpoises across Europe. On Wednesday, 28 June 2023, DFE will be meeting with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) in Brussels, Belgium, to discuss why captivity is not
- [Report released on Clearwater Marine Aquarium dolphin deaths](https://marineconnection.org/report-released-on-clearwater-marine-aquarium-dolphin-deaths/) - We recently reported on the death of the bottlenose dolphin Apollo at Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA). He was approximately four years old and the fifth dolphin to die at the facility in 19 months. In light of the deaths, in March of this year, an outside panel began reviewing the dolphins' habitats, water quality, veterinary
- [Hand-feeding of wild dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/hand-feeding-of-wild-dolphins/) - At Monkey Mia in Western Australia, a situation exists where several dolphins visit the beach daily and accept fish from the paying public. The beginnings of this interaction with humans may be attributed to Ninny Watts who began to hand feed a bottlenose dolphin she named ‘Charlie’ from a boat anchored off Monkey Mia jetty
- [Looking for Bibong the dolphin](https://marineconnection.org/looking-for-bibong-the-dolphin/) - In October 2022, bottlenose dolphin Bibong was released back into the wild after spending 17 years of his life confined and being used for shows in South Korea. Believed to be around 23 years old, he was one of eight dolphins that had been kept in various aquariums, the other seven were released in 2013,
- [More deaths at Marineland, Canada](https://marineconnection.org/more-deaths-at-marineland-canada/) - It has been confirmed by the Ontario Government that last week beluga whale Kodiak and bottlenose dolphin Sonar died at Marineland, Niagara. As required under regulations, necropsies have been conducted to confirm the cause of death on both marine mammals. Marine Connection's captivity director Margaux Dodds comments; "The news of these latest cetacean deaths at
- [Big thank you as petition tops 154,000](https://marineconnection.org/big-thank-you-as-petition-tops-154000/) - Thank you to everyone who responded to our plea to sign the petition by Olivia Mandle, a young activist whose campaign No Es Pais Para Delfines we are supporting, demanding an end to dolphinariums in Spain. We are delighted to report that on Thursday 20 April, Olivia along with colleagues from WAP Spain, delivered over
- [Celebrating Earth Day 2023](https://marineconnection.org/celebrating-earth-day-2023/) - For over 50 years, Earth Day has been celebrated on April 22nd and this year's theme is 'Invest In the Planet'. As a dolphin and whale conservation charity, we are asking everyone to do everything in their power to stop harming the marine environment. Plastic pollution is threatening the survival of our oceans being the
- [Minke whale stranding in Cyprus](https://marineconnection.org/minke-whale-stranding-in-cyprus/) - Colleagues at the Cyprus Wildlife Research Institute recently announced the discovery of a juvenile Minke whale. Found in Karpaz, it's the first ever record of a minke whale stranding in Cyprus - estimated to be approx 3 metres long, the youngster was found in a state of decomposition, making it difficult to determine the exact
- [Home beckons for Lolita](https://marineconnection.org/home-beckons-for-lolita/) - Marine Connection is delighted to hear more about the long-range commitment to establishing a sanctuary in Washington State where Lolita can be retired, hopefully around 9 months from now. For the first time ever, a private company with marine mammals under human care and an animal welfare organization, create a legally binding agreement with one
- [Swimmers harass dolphins in Hawaii](https://marineconnection.org/swimmers-harass-dolphins-in-hawaii/) - Almost three dozen people are under investigation after the group was caught allegedly harassing a pod of wild dolphins on the Big Island of Hawaii. In a press release, Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources said that officials observed the swimmers in Honaunau Bay during a routine patrol in the South Kona District and
- [UK celebrates 30 years free of captive dolphins and whales](https://marineconnection.org/uk-celebrates-30-years-free-of-captive-dolphins-and-whales/) - Marine Connection is celebrating 30 years since the closure of the last dolphinarium in the UK with a renewed call for a ban on the import/export and display of captive dolphins and whales. 8 March 2023 marks 30 years since the last dolphins were moved from Flamingo Land in Yorkshire to Kolmården Zoo in Sweden,
- [Cuvier's beaked whale mass stranding in Cyprus](https://marineconnection.org/cuviers-beaked-whale-mass-stranding-in-cyprus/) - On February 9-13, 2023, a total of 12 beaked whales were stranded, seven in the southern and five in the northern part of Cyprus. Most were dead when they were found, but some were alive, however, despite all efforts, none of the stranded whales survived. According to the preliminary results of the gross necropsy made
- [Marineland, Canada lobbying to sell](https://marineconnection.org/11918-2/) - It is reported that MarineLand located in Niagara Falls, Canada has now officially registered to lobby the Canadian government with a view to selling the park, something that was rumoured previously in late 2021. MarineLand has been subjected to several investigations over the years. In 2021 a charge of animal cruelty was made for allegedly
- [Vending machines to increase whale meat sales](https://marineconnection.org/vending-machines-to-increase-whale-meat-sales/) - Tokyo-based major whaling company Kyodo Senpaku Co. will open four more vending machines to increase its sales of whale meat and processed whale meat products in Tokyo and other locations by mid-February of this year. The unmanned stores are planned to allow consumers to purchase whale meat more easily, while the longer-term goal is to
- [Dead dolphins in UK waters sparks investigation](https://marineconnection.org/dead-dolphins-in-uk-waters-sparks-investigation/) - Over recent days, four common dolphins, mainly juvenile, have washed up dead on beaches near Aberystwyth and Tywyn in Wales, prompting an investigation from authorities to confirm if there is any possible link between the deaths. The smallest, discovered in Tywyn, was a juvenile male common dolphin that had a wound between its dorsal fin
- [Mystery of entangled orca](https://marineconnection.org/mystery-of-entangled-orca/) - Despite similar markings, a dead orca spotted off the Oregon Coast in the summer of 2022 was not southern resident, K44 but from a transient orca population. While the carcass was never recovered, an Oregon State University researcher has made some determinations from its genetic residue - the orca, first spotted by an angler in
- [Seaworld announce the death of orca Tilikum](https://marineconnection.org/seaworld-announce-the-death-of-orca-tilikum/) - It is with mixed feelings we report the death of Tilikum who died in the early hours of this morning at SeaWorld, Orlando. Since early last year following reports of an illness and concerns for his ongoing health, the park owners issued several statements and he was said to be improving. Captured from the wild
- [Dolphin dies at Primorsky Aquarium](https://marineconnection.org/dolphin-dies-at-primorsky-aquarium/) - We were recently alerted to the news that a bottlenose dolphin held at Primorsky Aquarium, Russia died in late September of this year. A post-mortem was conducted, however the cause of death has yet to be confirmed. Sam was one of five bottlenose dolphins that performed in shows daily for the paying public, he is
- [World’s Smallest Dolphin Disrupts New Zealand Fish Trade](https://marineconnection.org/worlds-smallest-dolphin-disrupts-new-zealand-fish-trade/) - A US court has temporarily banned imports of New Zealand fish caught in the habitat of the Māui dolphin because the country’s Marine Mammal Protection Act is weaker than its U.S. equivalent. Under US law, an import ban can kick in if the court agrees a country is not applying similar protections to those in
- [Mirage Dolphin Habitat to permanently close](https://marineconnection.org/mirage-dolphin-habitat-to-permanently-close/) - The Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage, Las Vegas is closing permanently. The decision to shut down the attraction and move the captive dolphins was announced earlier this week in a joint memo from interim Mirage President Franz Kallao and Hard Rock Las Vegas President Joe Lupo. The tigers and lions held at
- [North Atlantic right whale edging closer to extinction](https://marineconnection.org/north-atlantic-right-whale-edging-closer-to-extinction/) - The population of critically endangered North Atlantic right whales continue to decline, new numbers released suggest that only about 340 of the whales were alive as of 2021, a sharp decline from the nearly 500 recorded in 2010. The species can be found anywhere along the coast from eastern Canada to Florida and although no
- [Another dolphin calf born in captivity](https://marineconnection.org/another-dolphin-calf-born-in-captivity/) - More than 3,000+ dolphins and whales are held in tanks around the world, purely for the benefit of humans and sadly, another dolphin calf has been born in captivity. This time at Duisburg Zoo in Germany. In this guest blog, Marine Connection volunteer Kayleigh Brookes explains why inbreeding in captivity happens regularly and is a direct
- [Orca released from Russia's whale jail spotted in the wild](https://marineconnection.org/orca-released-from-russias-whale-jail-spotted-in-the-wild/) - Marine Connection is thrilled to report that one of the orcas freed from the infamous whale jail, was spotted by a member of the crew whilst filming Frozen Planet II - currently airing on BBC One and iPlayer. Whale scientist Grigory Tsidulko comments in the footage (link below), how lovely it is to see a
- [Dolphin deaths in Black Sea investigated](https://marineconnection.org/dolphin-deaths-in-black-sea-investigated/) - Criminal proceedings are to commence over the large number of dolphin deaths in the Black Sea. Ukrainian prosecutors say the Russian military is to blame for the dolphin deaths in the Black Sea as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and they’re ready to file criminal charges over the ecocide. There is a high
- [Mediterraneo dolphin deaths showed negligence](https://marineconnection.org/mediterraneo-dolphin-deaths-showed-negligence/) - An investigation into the deaths of three bottlenose dolphins which were previously kept at the Mediterraneo Marine Park in Malta showed levels of “negligence and mismanagement” and that the matter concerning the death of the dolphins (Onda, Mar, and Melit) at the facility were met with delayed action and lethargy from the Veterinary Regulations Directorate
- [First Annual World Dolphin Day](https://marineconnection.org/first-annual-world-dolphin-day/) - Marine Connection is a member of the Stop The Grind coalition and we are fully supporting the creation of World Dolphin Day, to mark the one-year anniversary of the biggest single slaughter of cetaceans in recorded history - 1,428 dolphins killed by Faroe Islanders. Today also serves as a reminder that dolphins around the world
- [Fourth dolphin death at Turkish facility](https://marineconnection.org/fourth-dolphin-death-at-turkish-facility/) - Splash, 21, is the latest dolphin to die at this 'therapy' facility since June 2021 - the others were 37-year-old Flip, a two-week-old calf, and Frosya who was pregnant at the time of her death. Onmega Dolphin Therapy and Activity Center in Marmaris claims spending time with their dolphins can help treat a range of
- [Mediterraneo blames support diver for dolphin deaths](https://marineconnection.org/mediterraneo-blame-support-diver-for-dolphin-deaths/) - Further to our report on August 8 on the death of three captive dolphins at Mediterraneo, Malta an article in the Times of Malta quotes Pietro Pecchioni, Supervising Manager at the facility as stating that the incident did occur in Summer 2021 when a weight bag was presumably left unattended by a support diver who
- [Update on captive dolphin deaths in Malta](https://marineconnection.org/update-on-captive-dolphin-deaths-in-malta/) - Marine Connection can now confirm that the cause of death for three female dolphins at Mediterraneo Marine Park in Malta was lead poisoning. All five dolphins were diagnosed with lead intoxication however Mar, Onda and Melita died after ingesting the material which had fallen or been spilled into the tank, believed to be from weight
- [More unusual orca behaviour](https://marineconnection.org/more-unusual-orca-behaviour/) - There has been another incident involving orca attacking sailboats, this time off the coast of Sines, Portugal. Five people on board managed to depart their badly damaged vessel which started to sink, they escaped by dinghy having radioed ahead for help. Fishing boat Festas André was close by and went straight to the rescue, all
- [New U.S. bill to phase out whale captivity](https://marineconnection.org/new-u-s-bill-to-phase-out-whale-captivity/) - Earlier this week, representatives Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and Suzan DelBene (D-Wash.), and Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) introduced the Strengthening Welfare in Marine Settings (SWIMS) Act - legislation that could see the phasing out of orcas, beluga whales, pilot whales, and false killer whales for public display in America. Specifically, the SWIMS Act
- [Investigation into dolphin deaths at Malta facility](https://marineconnection.org/investigation-into-dolphin-deaths-at-malta-facility/) - Between August and September 2021, three dolphins mysteriously disappeared from public view at Mediterraneo Marine Park in Malta. At the time, the facility was advising visiting customers that the animals had been moved to Spain however, after further inquiries with authorities in both Spain and Malta, Marine Connection discovered the dolphins had all died at
- [Orca skeleton to remain in Paris](https://marineconnection.org/orca-skeleton-to-remain-in-paris/) - The skeleton of a young female orca found dead after it became lost and ill in the Seine river (France) is set to become part of the collection of the French National Natural History Museum in Paris. It will be their first full skeleton of the Orcinus orca species. The orca’s story was closely followed
- [Solitary dolphin rescued over health concerns](https://marineconnection.org/11706-2/) - A solitary female bottlenose dolphin that has been frequenting waters off Texas for some years has been taken into care and is currently in rehabilitation at the Texas State Aquarium after the animal's health declined. The intervention was a last resort but partly due to the public becoming more interested in swimming with the dolphin,
- [4 July 2022 : World Day For Captive Dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/4-july-2022-world-day-for-captive-dolphins/) - World Day for Captive Dolphins is held every year on the 4th of July to highlight the plight of dolphins held in captivity around the globe. Confined in tiny concrete tanks and forced to perform tricks for the entertainment of the paying public, captive dolphins lead utterly unnatural lives and are deprived of everything they
- [Orca discovered entangled off Oregon coast](https://marineconnection.org/orca-discovered-entangled-off-oregon-coast/) - A dead orca thought to be a juvenile was recently discovered 25 miles off the coast of Newport, Oregon (United States) with crab pot line wrapped around its tail. Estimated to be between 5-12 years of age based on its length, the whale was spotted by fishermen and is the first record of an orca
- [Ukraine dolphins start performances in Romania](https://marineconnection.org/ukraine-dolphins-start-performances-in-romania/) - Four dolphins (Kiki, Maia, Marucya, and Veterok) that were moved from Kharkiv dolphinarium in northeast Ukraine to a captive facility which is part of the Museum of Natural Sciences in Constanta, Romania, have started performing daily stunts for paying visitors. The dolphinarium already displays two of its own dolphins, Nini and Chan-Chan and although the
- [Shinagawa Aquarium to end dolphin shows](https://marineconnection.org/shinagawa-aquarium-to-end-dolphin-shows/) - After 30 years of displaying captive dolphins, the aging Shinagawa Aquarium in Tokyo, Japan is ending its dolphin shows. A vital factor for the decision was if the facility were to keep their dolphins after the up-and-coming planned renovation works to the aquarium, a larger pool would have to be built for the marine mammals,
- [Captive dolphins moved from the Caribbean to Saudi Arabia](https://marineconnection.org/captive-dolphins-moved-from-the-caribbean-to-saudi-arabia/) - Marine Connection recently received news that five dolphins, three females and two males ranging in age from 5 to 10 years, have been relocated from the Dolphin Academy at Curaçao Sea Aquarium to the Fakieh Aquarium, Jeddah. Opened in 2013, Fakieh Aquarium already exhibits dolphins that take part in shows for the public, however later
- [World Ocean Day - June 8, 2022](https://marineconnection.org/world-ocean-day-june-8-2022/) - The ocean is the lifeblood of our planet. There is such a huge diversity of life in the sea, from microscopic plankton to mighty whales, and every being plays a part in maintaining a stable climate and supporting life in our oceans. It is essential that we protect and revitalise this immense ecosystem and put
- [Independent assessment report on Tokitae - could this be her first real step 'home'](https://marineconnection.org/independent-assessment-report-on-tokitae-could-this-be-her-first-real-step-home/) - Over recent months, Marine Connection has joined many others in having concerns regarding health issues suffered by Tokitae/Lolita, it was therefore encouraging to learn that independent vets were being allowed to assess her condition and give recommendations for her ongoing welfare. It is with some relief, that we read via a release from the Dade
- [Dolphins moved from Spain to China](https://marineconnection.org/dolphins-moved-from-spain-to-china/) - Aquopolis Costa Dorada, an amusement park in Spain that had a dolphinarium within the facility has transferred all of its nine dolphins to Ocean Paradise in Hainan, China. The reason for the move is that Parques Reunidos, which owns the Spanish theme park, says it wants to focus exclusively on family entertainment and therefore it
- [Whale dies at SeaWorld](https://marineconnection.org/whale-dies-at-seaworld/) - A short-finned pilot whale named Ace has died at SeaWorld San Diego, a necropsy will be carried out to help determine the cause of death. He was one of 22 whales which mass stranded near Fort Pierce, Florida in 2012 - only three survived, Ace and two females named Ava and Piper. As they were
- [Speak Out - demand the UK upholds standards for captive dolphins & whales](https://marineconnection.org/speak-out-demand-the-uk-upholds-standards-for-captive-dolphins-whales/) - Since 1993, the UK has had no captive dolphins or whales and since that time, has gained worldwide respect with regards to this and also for the country having some of the strictest legislation on the keeping of cetacea for public display, as per Annex G, Supplement to the Secretary of State's Standards of Modern
- [London Marathon 2022 - step up to protect](https://marineconnection.org/london-marathon-2022-step-to-protect/) - Marine Connection has one space left in this year’s London Marathon. Not only do you get to run in the world’s most famous marathon event taking place on Sunday 2nd October 2022, you will also be saving dolphins and whales whilst doing it. By taking on this challenge, you can help us continue our important
- [UPDATE : UK Zoo consultation extended until 21 June](https://marineconnection.org/update-uk-zoo-consultation-extended-until-21-june/) - The consultation period for public feedback on the new UK review for Standards of Modern Zoo Practice has been extended until 21 June Since 1993 when the last facility closed in the UK, Marine Connection has been liaising with DEFRA asking for legislation to be brought into force to establish a formal ban on the
- [Russian military dolphins placed at Sevastopol harbour](https://marineconnection.org/russian-military-dolphins-placed-at-sevastopol-harbour/) - Satellite images taken on April 7 by Maxar Technologies show Russia is using trained dolphins to guard its naval base in the Black Sea. The Russian Navy deployed two of its military dolphins during its invasion of Ukraine with the pens at the entrance to Sevastopol harbour, sheltered just inside a sea wall. The dolphins
- [When NYA displayed wild-caught dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/when-nya-displayed-wild-caught-dolphins/) - Over 100 years ago the New York Aquarium (NYA) was purchasing live dolphins from a dolphin fishery in Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. The fisheries' focus was food and oil, but the director of the aquarium Charles Haskin Townsend, approached the company to supply the aquarium with live dolphins for display – they agreed. Beginning in
- [Wild dolphin observed ‘talking’ porpoise](https://marineconnection.org/wild-dolphin-observed-talking-porpoise/) - Kylie, a solitary common dolphin that has been fairly resident around Fairlie Bay and Largs coastline in Scotland for over 15 years, spent so much time around harbour porpoises that her vocalizations include high-pitched click bursts associated with porpoises instead of the whistles and pulse calls more commonly heard in dolphins. Recordings from 2016 and
- [A Tale of a Whale - Hvaldimir´s Journey in Norway](https://marineconnection.org/a-tale-of-a-whale-hvaldimirs-journey-in-norway/) - Two years in the making, this historical documentary is about Hvaldimir, a solitary beluga whale currently living in Norwegian waters. The primary purpose of the piece is to educate and inspire greater respect and appreciation for this beluga, to aid in his welfare and future survival. Watch it for FREE here Photo Credit: Krisztina Balotay
- [Lolita to be examined by independent vets](https://marineconnection.org/lolita-to-be-examined-by-independent-vets/) - Under new ownership, third-party veterinarians will be allowed into Miami Seaquarium periodically to perform independent medical evaluations to examine the health of Lolita the orca. The Dolphin Company confirmed this latest move at a press conference. Marine Connection welcomes this news as it hopefully means there will also be more transparency with the public on
- [Disappointing news - whaling to resume in Iceland](https://marineconnection.org/disappointing-news-whaling-to-resume-in-iceland/) - Earlier this year, the Icelandic government publicly signaled an end to Icelandic whaling with an announcement that the country is set to stop commercial whaling from 2024. The news was welcomed by campaigning organisations including Marine Connection, who have been calling for an end to whaling in the country for many years, it is, therefore,
- [Support vital manifesto to end captivity in Spain](https://marineconnection.org/support-vital-manifesto-to-end-captivity-in-spain/) - Earlier in the year, Marine Connection supported a petition raised by young Spanish campaigner Olivia Mandle to have dolphinaria banned in the country. Olivia's petition has now gained over 113,000 signatures, but we now need your help even further. Please take a moment to read and sign her manifesto which our organisation is also supporting,
- [Kolmården Zoo to close their dolphinarium](https://marineconnection.org/kolmarden-zoo-to-close-their-dolphinarium/) - Today we received news from colleague Daniel Rolke in Sweden that Kolmården Zoo is to close their dolphinarium currently holding 12 dolphins, the majority born at the facility. What the future plans are for the dolphins is unknown, whether they will be separated when relocated is unclear, however as this decision will take some time,
- [Addressing animal welfare in Spain](https://marineconnection.org/addressing-animal-welfare-in-spain/) - Spain’s Social Rights Minister, Ione Belarra announced during a recent press conference that as part of proposed changes to animal welfare laws, the country will be converting zoos and dolphinariums into recovery centres for native species to “allow children to get to know local wildlife and be raised with values supporting animal protection.” The Minister
- [Four captive dolphins die in Pakistan](https://marineconnection.org/four-captive-dolphins-die-in-pakistan/) - The two females and two males were imported from Ukraine in Autumn 2019 to Lahore’s Sozo Water Park for public entertainment shows. All have died within a short time of one another hinting at a possible act of gross negligence due to lack of revenue over the years because of the COVID-19 outbreak in early
- [Another beluga death at Mystic Aquarium](https://marineconnection.org/another-beluga-death-at-mystic-aquarium/) - Appalling news! The second of five whales brought from Marineland Canada to Connecticut’s Mystic Aquarium in May 2021 for 'research purposes' has died. The female had been receiving intensive care for the past several months for multiple health issues, however, the cause of death will not be known until a full necropsy is carried out.
- [Welcome development on Icelandic whaling](https://marineconnection.org/welcome-development-on-icelandic-whaling/) - Marine Connection has for many years campaigned against whaling, raising awareness about this cruel business. We are encouraged that Svandís Svavarsdóttir, Iceland’s Minister of Fisheries, has publicly announced there is little evidence that whaling is economically beneficial to the country and although current regulations allow the practice to continue until 2023, the Minister states she
- [SeaWorld to possibly purchase Cedar Fair](https://marineconnection.org/seaworld-to-possibly-purchase-cedar-fair/) - SeaWorld Entertainment has reportedly offered to purchase Cedar Fair, a company with amusement parks, water parks, and other immersive entertainment locations across North America - the latter has confirmed receipt of an unsolicited, non-binding buyout offer from SeaWorld, apparently a whopping $3.5billion! If successful, a deal would merge SeaWorld's 12 properties with Cedar Fair's 27
- [Florida facility to expand dolphin tanks](https://marineconnection.org/florida-facility-to-expand-dolphin-tanks/) - In spring 2023 the seven dolphins held at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park will move into tanks three times larger than their existing structure, however as the facility is planning to hold up to 15 dolphins over the coming years, as more animals are added, this larger space will once again become smaller for each individual.
- [Renewable energy versus protecting whales - a fine balance](https://marineconnection.org/renewable-energy-versus-protecting-whales-a-fine-balance/) - Marine Connection is an active member of Stop Sea Blasts campaign that raises public awareness about dolphins, whales, and other marine life being injured/killed by the detonation of unexploded bombs found in British waters from the First and Second World Wars. In November 2021, as part of a wider event in London, a 120,000-signature petition
- [Help end captivity in Spain](https://marineconnection.org/help-end-captivity-in-spain/) - Campaigning globally to end the keeping of dolphins and whales in captivity is one of Marine Connection's main aims. We were recently approached by 14-year old Olivia Mandle, requesting support for her anti-captivity petition to stop cetaceans from being held for public entertainment at facilities in Spain. The country has the most captive cetacean facilities
- [Marineland charged over use of dolphins & whales in shows](https://marineconnection.org/marineland-charged-over-use-of-dolphins-whales-in-shows/) - Marineland (Canada) has been charged for allegedly using dolphins and whales for entertainment purposes, in breach of anti-captivity legislation passed in 2019 making it an offence for use of the marine mammals to perform. In October, Niagara regional police began their investigation over the park's use of cetaceans in shows during the month of August.
- [President Putin supports ending cetacean captures in Russian waters](https://marineconnection.org/president-putin-supports-ending-cetacean-captures-in-russian-waters/) - At a recent meeting, President Vladimir Putin publicly announced that he would support efforts to ban dolphin and whale captures for educational and entertainment purposes. The 2nd hearing of the bill will take place on 14th December, a 3rd hearing will then be scheduled after which we are optimistic that President Putin will sign the
- ['Whale Jail' holding pens completely dismantled](https://marineconnection.org/whale-jail-holding-pens-completely-dismantled/) - The cramped pens in Russia's Srednyaya Bay that were used to hold dozens of beluga whales and orcas in 2018 have finally been completely dismantled to ensure marine mammals will not be held captive on the premises in the future. The whales were all wild-caught in the Sea of Okhotsk, the majority destined to be
- [On Giving Tuesday - give the gift of hope](https://marineconnection.org/on-giving-tuesday-give-the-gift-of-hope/) - 30 November this year is Giving Tuesday - a day which is recognised as the world's biggest day where everyone, everywhere can do something to champion a cause close to their heart. By donating just £5 to Marine Connection this Giving Tuesday, you will help fund our vital campaigns to end the keeping of dolphins
- [Sad end for Bluey the beluga](https://marineconnection.org/sad-end-for-bluey-the-beluga/) - A solitary beluga whale that frequented waters around Clarenville, Newfoundland which locals nicknamed Bluey has been found dead. Bluey had lived in the area for over two years and often became entangled in ropes and fishing gear. He had to be rescued several times however sadly on this occasion, he became entangled in an old
- [Concern grows for the welfare of orca Moana](https://marineconnection.org/concern-grows-for-the-welfare-of-orca-moana/) - For some time, there has been ongoing concern over the unsuitable conditions in which the orcas are being held at Marineland, Antibes (France). There are now growing fears for the welfare of 10-year-old male orca Moana, he is suffering sub-dermal wounds and his state appears to be worsening. Our colleagues One Voice (France), have
- [Review urgently needed on whale watching in Norway](https://marineconnection.org/review-urgently-needed-on-whale-watching-in-norway/) - Seeing whales and dolphins in the wild, in their natural habitat as opposed to seeing them in confinement is something that Marine Connection supports, however, this must be done responsibly. In recent years this has become a multi-million-pound industry, and whilst many operators follow guidelines put in place to protect the animals from over-exposure and
- [Successful outcome for Stop Sea Blasts campaign](https://marineconnection.org/successful-outcome-for-stop-sea-blasts-campaign/) - Marine Connection has been working with and supporting the Stop Sea Blasts campaign, launched November 2020 to raise awareness about whales, dolphins, and other marine life being injured/killed by the detonation of unexploded explosives such as bombs, left undetonated in British waters following the two World Wars - such devices must be safely cleared before
- [Winter the dolphin dies at Clearwater Aquarium](https://marineconnection.org/winter-the-dolphin-dies-at-clearwater-aquarium/) - The female dolphin known as Winter held at Clearwater Marine Aquarium since 2005, died at the facility on Thursday 11 November at around 8.00pm - she was only 16 years old. A necropsy will be conducted to ascertain the exact cause of her death, however, heart failure is thought to be possible also she had
- [Another travel company supports ending cetacean captivity](https://marineconnection.org/another-travel-company-supports-ending-cetacean-captivity/) - Organisations including Marine Connection are delighted with the news that online travel company Expedia has adjusted their animal welfare policy and will no longer be selling holidays that involve performances by or interactions with captive dolphins and whales. Expedia intends to complete the process by 2022 who now joins a list of other tour operators/holiday
- [Calls to improve standards for captive cetaceans in USA](https://marineconnection.org/calls-to-improve-standards-for-captive-cetaceans-in-usa/) - In the wild, beluga whales often dive to depths of more than 1,000 feet, yet current US federal standards require that in captivity these majestic whales live in tanks of only 7 feet in depth, and dolphins do not fare any better; two dolphins can be held together in a tank that is just 24
- [Solitary beluga whale likely from Arctic Ocean](https://marineconnection.org/solitary-beluga-whale-likely-from-arctic-ocean/) - As an organisation that monitors/documents solitary dolphins and whales globally, we find that usually when these marine mammals appear, it is not known where they have come from or what population they may belong to. However, the latest update regarding the solitary beluga whale seen in Puget Sound in early October is of interest as
- [Proposed gray whale hunt](https://marineconnection.org/proposed-gray-whale-hunt/) - NOAA Fisheries recently published a Federal Register notice announcing a 20-day comment period on administrative law judge, George Jordan's recommendation that the Makah tribe in Washington state be allowed to hunt gray whales. Public comments will inform NOAA Fisheries final decision on the Makah Tribe’s waiver request, which would allow them to hunt/kill up to
- [Lone beluga whale spotted around Puget Sound](https://marineconnection.org/lone-beluga-whale-spotted-around-puget-sound/) - Questions have been raised following sightings of a solitary beluga whale in the Puget Sound area, hundreds of miles outside its usual range. Further investigation is being carried out to help determine if the marine mammal is male or female, where it came from, which group it belongs to or why it wandered away from
- [Wild capture ban moves a step forward in Russia](https://marineconnection.org/wild-capture-ban-moves-a-step-forward-in-russia/) - Marine Connection welcomes the news that the Russian government has finally approved draft legislation that could see a permanent ban on the captures of wild dolphins, whales and porpoises for entertainment and educational purposes in Russia’s exclusive economic zone - 200 nautical miles from its shore. The government has also imposed a ban on the
- [Effects of Navy sonar on cetaceans](https://marineconnection.org/effects-of-navy-sonar-on-cetaceans/) - Just as a report is due to be published regarding a mass stranding of beaked whales (mainly Cuvier’s and northern bottlenose whales) in 2018 on the west coast of Scotland, Ireland, Iceland and the Faroe Islands, and potential links between the strandings and the UK Navy operations, the US Navy is going ahead with seven
- [Joint letter demands investigation into Mystic beluga situation](https://marineconnection.org/joint-letter-demands-investigation-into-mystic-beluga-situation/) - Marine Connection forms part of a coalition of organisations working together in relation to the transfer of five beluga whales from Marineland, Canada to Mystic Aquarium, USA in May of this year. We have been deeply concerned by this, and since the move to Mystic one beluga named Havok, has died with another, known as
- [Neurobiological harms to captive cetaceans](https://marineconnection.org/neurobiological-harms-to-captive-cetaceans/) - The welfare of large-brained, socially complex wild animals like whales, dolphins (and elephants) in captive environments is a global concern. A new peer-reviewed paper Putative neural consequences of captivity for elephants and cetaceans, recently published, addresses this matter in the context of decades of experimental evidence showing that animals across a wide range of species
- [Documents released on stranding of orca calf Toa](https://marineconnection.org/documents-released-on-stranding-of-orca-calf-tao/) - Following strong public interest, New Zealand's Department of Conservation (DOC) has published a series of documents outlining its response to the orca calf stranding near Plimmerton, north of Wellington, New Zealand in July this year. The young unweaned orca calf named ‘Toa’ was cared for by volunteers and by veterinarians for 12 days while attempts
- [Another solitary bottlenose dolphin killed by vessel strike](https://marineconnection.org/another-solitary-bottlenose-dolphin-killed-by-vessel-strike/) - Marine Connection is deeply saddened to report the death of yet another known solitary/social bottlenose dolphin due to a vessel strike. On 12 September, a dolphin was reported floating on the water at the entrance to Cork Harbour near Roches Point. The animal was recovered and sadly showed signs of injuries consistent with propeller damage.
- [Memorial unveiled to Danny the solitary/social dolphin](https://marineconnection.org/memorial-unveiled-to-danny-the-solitary-social-dolphin/) - Marine Connection co-founder Liz Sandeman recently unveiled a beautiful memorial to a solitary male bottlenose dolphin known as Danny who frequented Dorset waters for some years before losing his life in October 2020 due to an accidental vessel strike. The memorial is unique, being the first of its kind anywhere in the world. The male
- [Honouring Danny – Dorset’s friendly dolphin](https://marineconnection.org/honouring-danny-dorsets-friendly-dolphin-2/) - At the end of this month, Marine Connection will be unveiling a permanent stone memorial at Portland Marina, Dorset, to commemorate the life of a much-loved solitary social male bottlenose dolphin known as Danny. The memorial, the first of its kind in the UK, was part-funded by public donations and Portland Stone Firms Ltd, without
- [Orca Ula dies at Loro Parque](https://marineconnection.org/orca-ula-dies-at-loro-parque/) - Marine Connection has received news that Ula, the calf of Morgan, died yesterday 10 August. We have had concerns about Ula's health for many months. In April 2021, Loro Parque reported that the two-and-a-half-year-old’s mood had deteriorated and she had been showing signs of an intestinal problem. Over the past few days her spirits were
- [Orcas continue to damage vessels off coast of Spain](https://marineconnection.org/orcas-continue-to-damage-vessels-off-coast-of-spain/) - Spain has ordered vessels of 15 meters or less from sailing near the coast between Cape Trafalgar and the small town of Barbate after reports of more than 50 encounters with orcas, including as many as 25 incidents involving rudder failure in which boats had to be towed to shore. The two-week prohibition is the
- [Beaked whales found dead on Scottish beach](https://marineconnection.org/beaked-whales-found-dead-on-scottish-beach/) - Three juvenile Sowerby’s beaked whales were recently discovered on a beach near Findhorn, Scotland. Spotted by a walker, initial examinations at the site found no net entanglement but it's thought the animals came ashore live and died on the beach. Further tests will be being carried out by the Scottish Marine Animal Strandings Scheme over
- [Toa, the stranded orca calf, dies](https://marineconnection.org/toa-the-stranded-orca-calf-dies/) - We are devasted to report that Toa the young orca calf, thought to be between four and six months old has passed away after his health rapidly deteriorated and vets on site were unable to save him. He had been under human care for nearly two weeks after getting separated from his pod north of
- [Remembering Lolita's fateful day](https://marineconnection.org/remembering-lolitas-fateful-day/) - August 8, 2021 marks 51 years since Lolita the orca, then just a child, was cruelly taken away from her family and ocean home. Now at approximately 55 years old, she languishes in a tiny tank at Miami Seaquarium in Florida, USA and we are asking everyone to continue raising awareness about her plight. By
- [Ella’s beach clean-up - reducing plastic pollution](https://marineconnection.org/ellas-beach-clean-up-reducing-plastic-pollution/) - Marine Connection's youngest ambassador, Ella Pringle was so devastated after learning that a humpback whale calf recently died after becoming entangled in fishing rope on the east coast of Scotland, that she has set up a Beach Clean Challenge - to pick up 1500kg of beach litter/plastic pollution this year. By sponsoring just 1p for
- [Update on walrus in UK waters](https://marineconnection.org/update-on-walrus-in-uk-waters/) - As many will be aware, a walrus has been frequenting the coastal area around the Isles of Scilly (UK) since mid-June. Whilst the walrus, which has been nicknamed ‘Wally’, has aroused much interest and brought enjoyment to a lot of people, his presence in St Mary’s harbour poses huge risks - not only to himself
- [Increasing concern over public interaction with solitary dolphin](https://marineconnection.org/increasing-concern-over-public-interaction-with-solitary-dolphin/) - The dolphin first appeared near Corpus Christi, Texas in March 2020, and with lockdown easing, more and more of the public are attempting to swim and touch the dolphin, sharing their experiences via social media which only encourages others to also interact with the animal. These actions could be dangerous, for both the wild dolphin
- [Killer whale social secrets revealed](https://marineconnection.org/killer-whale-social-secrets-revealed/) - A new study suggests southern resident killer whales may socialise with each other based on age and gender, with younger whales and females more sociable than other groups. The research, published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B, also found that as the whales got older, the more they were pushed to the
- [World Ocean Day - help change the future](https://marineconnection.org/11163-2/) - Today is World Ocean Day - an annual awareness-raising day, created to encourage people to think about protecting the ocean and taking action globally. Celebrated annually on 8 June around the world, this year's theme is 'The Ocean: Life & Livelihoods' reminding everyone of how integral the global ocean is to life on Earth and
- [Dolphins illegally captured for entertainment purposes](https://marineconnection.org/dolphins-illegally-captured-for-entertainment-purposes/) - Four male defendants are to stand trial on June 2, in relation to the illegal capture of wild dolphins from Bahraini waters for a captive facility. Case documents revealed that the Public Prosecution had received a notification from the Coast Guard Command, indicating dolphins had been caught. After monitoring the handover of one dolphin to
- [Male beluga transferred to SeaWorld Orlando from Georgia Aquarium](https://marineconnection.org/male-beluga-transferred-to-seaworld-orlando-from-georgia-aquarium/) - 11-year-old beluga whale Nunavik has been moved from Georgia Aquarium to SeaWorld Orlando, joining their two existing beluga whales Grayson and Oliver. Nunavik was born at Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium in 2009 and in 2016 was moved to Georgia Aquarium. His move leaves behind four female and one male beluga - Whisper, Qinu, Maple, Shila, and
- [Sea World, Australia has no plans to stop dolphin breeding](https://marineconnection.org/sea-world-australia-has-no-plans-to-stop-dolphin-breeding/) - Following previous good news from Australia that a ban had been put in place meaning that captive dolphins will no longer be commercially bred or imported into the state of New South Wales, we had hoped that the state of Queensland may follow suit, sadly this has proven not to be. The only place in
- [Beluga whales moved to Mystic Aquarium](https://marineconnection.org/beluga-whales-moved-to-mystic-aquarium/) - Five beluga whales (four females and one male), were transported from Marineland, Canada to Mystic Aquarium, USA, over the weekend. The whales, Jetta, Havana, Kharabali, Havok, and Sahara, ranging in age from 7-12 years old, were transported from Hamilton International Airport on a C-130 cargo plane and transferred onto flatbed trucks for the final stage
- [Russia moves closer to dolphin & whale capture ban](https://marineconnection.org/russia-moves-closer-to-dolphin-whale-capture-ban/) - Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, confirmed at a government meeting earlier this week that the country will move forward to introduce new legislation banning the wild capture of various marine mammal species including dolphins and whales for entertainment and educational purposes. The Prime Minister said he now hoped that this would make his intentions very
- [Setting sail to protect dolphins & whales](https://marineconnection.org/setting-sail-to-protect-dolphins-whales/) - Marine Connection is thrilled to announce we have partnered with 2022 Golden Globe Race (GGR22) solo sailor Pat Lawless to raise awareness of the threats to our oceans and the impact this is having on dolphins and whales. Pat is taking part in the GGR 22 race and in preparation for this, will set sail
- [High concentrations of PCBs in Icelandic orcas](https://marineconnection.org/high-concentrations-of-pcbs-in-icelandic-orcas/) - According to a new study, some Icelandic orcas have very high concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls(PCBs) in their blubber but other orcas from the same population have levels of PCBs that are much lower and it’s mainly down to what they eat. Orcas that eat a mixed diet of seals, or other marine mammals such as
- [Update on dolphin and whale capture ban in Russian waters](https://marineconnection.org/update-on-dolphin-and-whale-capture-ban-in-russian-waters/) - Russia's Deputy Prime Minister Viktoria Abramchenko confirmed earlier today that the government has prepared amendments to a draft Federal law to permanently ban the capture of wild cetaceans (dolphins and whales). The authorities are planning stricter regulations with regards to cetacean captures in Russia's exclusive economic zone 200 nautical miles from its shores - establishing
- [Update on death of Skyla at Loro Parque](https://marineconnection.org/update-on-death-of-skyla-at-loro-parque/) - We now have an update on the passing of the female orca Skyla, who recently died at Loro Parque, Tenerife, Spain. The facility's post about the post-mortem which was conducted by pathologists from the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, reports the cause of death was due to intestinal torsion resulting in acute septicemia,
- [Concern over Morgan's calf Ula at Loro Parque](https://marineconnection.org/concern-over-morgans-calf-ula-at-loro-parque/) - Loro Parque has reported that there are concerns over the health of Ula at Loro Parque, Tenerife. Born to Morgan at the park in September 2018, the facility has reported that the two-and-a-half-year-old's mood has deteriorated, and she continues to show signs of an intestinal problem. Updates to follow as these become available. Skyla, one
- [Harderwijk say dolphin show will be more ‘educational’](https://marineconnection.org/harderwijk-say-dolphin-show-will-be-more-educational/) - Trained to perform tricks for the visiting public for most of their lives, the dolphins held at Dolfinarium Harderwijk will no longer do so following an investigation commissioned by the Ministry of Agriculture and Nature, which found the dolphins were used for entertainment purposes and there was no educational programme in place. In 2015, inspectors
- [Factors behind stranding of pilot whales announced](https://marineconnection.org/factors-behind-stranding-of-pilot-whales-announced/) - Lung damage, hunger and disorientation have been cited as the factors that led a pod of 52 short-finned pilot whales to strand earlier this year on Madura Island, Indonesia. 34 necropsies were carried out and the cause of death of the pod's matriarch was due to lung damage and severe inflammation in her melon -
- [Supporting calls for a ban on dolphinaria across Belgium](https://marineconnection.org/supporting-calls-for-a-ban-on-dolphinaria-across-belgium/) - Marine Connection very much welcomed the news earlier this month on the passing of a ban on the keeping of cetaceans in captivity by the Capital Region of Brussels. We are currently supporting a proposal put forward by the Flemish Minister of Animal Welfare, Ben Weyts, to ban the keeping of cetaceans in captivity in
- [Vancouver Aquarium under new ownership](https://marineconnection.org/vancouver-aquarium-under-new-ownership/) - Vancouver Aquarium has transferred ownership of the Stanley Park facility to a privately owned tourism company based in the United States, Herschend Enterprises. The facility has been closed for most of the Covid 19 pandemic, and aquarium executives had said the financial losses of the closure left them facing a permanent shutdown. The Aquarium closed
- [It's not Fungie the Dingle dolphin](https://marineconnection.org/its-not-fungie-the-dingle-dolphin/) - Having seen reports over the weekend that the dolphin known internationally as Fungie had been spotted off the Kinsale coast of Ireland, we doubted that the dolphin in question was the same majestic male dolphin that had lived in Dingle Bay for over 37 years, before simply disappearing in late 2020. Upon further investigation, we
- [Japanese whaling vessels leave port](https://marineconnection.org/japanese-whaling-vessels-leave-port/) - Four whaling boats left Japanese ports at the weekend for coastal waters as the country entered its third commercial whaling season since ending its relationship and formally leaving the International Whaling Commission (IWC) in 2019. Minke whales will be initially killed within coastal waters of Aomori, Iwate and Miyagi prefectures until early June when a
- [Seaspiracy – a must watch!](https://marineconnection.org/seaspiracy-a-must-watch/) - Seaspiracy is a powerful feature-length documentary that unearths the environmental impact of fishing. Launched on Netflix only last week, it’s already trending as one of its Top 10 most-watched films and programmes. Directed and narrated by British filmmaker Ali Tabrizi, Seaspiracy highlights many of our concerns including the impact of marine plastics on dolphins and
- [Capturing dolphins to catch tuna is not responsible fishing](https://marineconnection.org/capturing-dolphins-to-catch-tuna-is-not-responsible-fishing/) - It is disappointing to learn that a tuna law reform that would see better protection for dolphins deliberately caught in purse seine tuna fishing off Costa Rica has been delayed. Despite not having its own tuna fishing fleet, Costa Rica is one of the few countries that still allow this practice to continue - encircling
- [Halt in the capture of orcas/belugas in Russian waters extended](https://marineconnection.org/halt-in-the-capture-of-orcas-belugas-in-russian-waters-extended/) - Marine Connection welcomes the news that wild orcas and beluga whales in Russian waters will remain wild and safe until at least 2023. Captures of these cetacean species for the public display industry was suspended in 2019, and the Russian Federal Agency for Fishery recently confirmed that the ban has now been extended until 2023
- [Possible end to capture of wild cetaceans in Russia](https://marineconnection.org/possible-end-to-capture-of-wild-cetaceans-in-russia/) - Marine Connection welcomes the news that a bill has been introduced by Deputy of the State Duma of the Russian Federation Svetlana Bessar for a total ban on wild captures of marine mammals for cultural and educational purposes in the country. If accepted and passed, the new legislation would be a major step forward in
- [Dolphins transferred  to Harbin Polarland, China](https://marineconnection.org/dolphins-transferred-to-harbin-polarland-china/) - Several dolphins have been transferred to Harbin Polarland, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province - the marine mammals were originally imported from Japan and moved to a holding facility before being transferred to Harbin. The facility, one of many owned by Dalian Sun Asia Tourism Holdings Co., Ltd, also exhibits beluga whales which arrived in 2014 from
- [New South Wales, Australia bans captive dolphin breeding](https://marineconnection.org/new-south-wales-australia-bans-dolphin-breeding/) - Marine Connection very much welcomes the latest news that captive dolphins will no longer be commercially bred or imported into the state of New South Wales (NSW). NSW environment minister Matt Kean recently introduced the new regulation (made under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016), which will also effectively stop any future dolphin marine parks from
- [Study finds dolphins have similar personality traits to humans](https://marineconnection.org/study-finds-dolphins-have-similar-personality-traits-to-humans/) - According to a study recently published in the Journal of Comparative Psychology, dolphins have similar personality traits to humans - curiosity and sociability being among the two found. That being the case, why are these sentient mammals still being confined to barren tanks. Commencing in 2012, researchers at the University of Hull observed dolphins at
- [Belgium to consider closing Bruges dolphinarium by 2022](https://marineconnection.org/belgium-to-consider-closing-bruges-dolphinarium-by-2022/) - Flemish Minister of Animal Welfare Ben Weyts, is pushing for a decision to be made with regards to the keeping of dolphins in the Flemish region of Belgium, where the only existing dolphinarium, Boudewijn Sea Park, is located. Initially, there may be a ban on breeding leading to a full closure of the facility, which
- [End bomb detonations that injure/kill cetaceans](https://marineconnection.org/end-bomb-detonations-that-injure-kill-cetaceans/) - Actress and activist Joanna Lumley has called on UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his partner, Carrie Symonds to end the ‘needless’ detonations of World War Two bombs at sea. In an open letter to Number 10, she has urged the Prime Minister to support the ‘low order deflagration’ method of ordnance disposal to protect
- [Seven of the eight dolphins now left Parc Astérix](https://marineconnection.org/seven-of-the-eight-dolphins-now-left-parc-asterix/) - Parc Astérix has confirmed that all their dolphins have left the facility - except for 39-year-old Femke who has been euthanized. As previously reported, two dolphins Guama and Cecil were transported to Kölmarden Wildlife Park, Sweden on January 23. On January 30, three others Bahia, Beauty and Belize were sent to Mundomar in Benidorm, Spain
- [Sad news as another solitary dolphin is found dead](https://marineconnection.org/sad-news-as-another-solitary-dolphin-is-found-dead/) - A solitary female common dolphin who lived around Eckerförder Bay, Germany for approximately a year has been found dead. Her body was found on the seabed by recreational divers on January 27, a post mortem is due to be conducted to determine the cause of death. Reports state that the dolphin does not appear to
- [Solitary dolphin Georges continues to roam](https://marineconnection.org/solitary-dolphin-georges-continues-to-roam/) - Twenty years after first being sighted in County Kerry, Ireland, the male solitary dolphin known as Georges appears to continue enjoying his wild travels. Although over the years he has been given other names, including Dony/Randy, depending on the area he appeared in, Georges is the name he has been known by in the UK.
- [Deliberate killing of a trapped minke whale](https://marineconnection.org/deliberate-killing-of-a-trapped-minke-whale/) - Fishermen have killed a minke whale off the Japanese port of Taiji - 19 days after the juvenile became trapped inside set fishing nets owned Taiji Fisheries Cooperative. It's been reported that a rope was tied around the whale's tailstock then attached to a ship, meaning the whale was held upside down with its head
- [Bycatch - the major cause of cetacean deaths](https://marineconnection.org/bycatch-the-principal-cause-of-cetacean-deaths/) - Bycatch is the incidental capture of non-target species such as dolphins, whales and porpoises by various fisheries - it's a global issue and one of the most serious, direct threats to cetaceans in the oceans today, with at least 300,000 caught in fishing gear every year. Read Marine Connection's latest report 'Bycatch and Cetaceans' on
- [Join us - end the global trade in wild dolphins & whales](https://marineconnection.org/join-us-end-the-global-trade-in-wild-dolphins-whales/) - Help be the voice for all the dolphins, whales and porpoises that have been taken from the wild in the name of entertainment, confined to tanks suffering in silence day after day, year after year. The world is changing. Humans are, as a race, hopefully developing a new consciousness of non-human beings, their rights and
- [Incredible news - Moray Firth dolphin identified in Demark](https://marineconnection.org/incredible-news-moray-firth-dolphin-identified-in-demark/) - For many years Marine Connection has been monitoring the phenomenon of solitary cetaceans and since November 2019 we have been networking with colleagues in the Svendborg area of Denmark, with regards to a solitary male bottlenose dolphin which was given the name Delle. We have just received the incredible news that Delle has been identified
- [Norway snub critics and kills hundreds of minke whales](https://marineconnection.org/norway-snub-critics-and-kills-hundreds-of-minke-whales/) - Each year Norway announces a self-imposed whaling quota, which for 2020 was nearly 1,300 minke whales. This season 12 boats took part in the hunts, slaughtering 462 whales through using powerful harpoons that explode inside the whale before the marine mammal is dragged on-board. The whales suffer terrible pain and trauma and in some cases,
- [Effects of underwater noise on cetaceans](https://marineconnection.org/effects-of-underwater-noise-on-dolphins-and-whales/) - Humans create a considerable amount of noise in the ocean but to what degree do we understand the full impact of our activities on marine life? Sound is the primary sense for dolphins, whales and porpoises and mixed in between the large range of frequencies used by cetaceans are the sounds introduced by humans. The
- [Help stop the global trade in wild dolphins and whales](https://marineconnection.org/help-stop-the-global-trade-in-dolphins-and-whales/) - Marine Connection is supporting the Campaign to End Wildlife Trade. As members of a coalition of the UK's leading animal welfare and conservation groups we are, in association with World Animal Protection, calling for a global ban on the trade in wildlife, including dolphins and whales. With the G20 Summit taking place in Riyadh on
- [Captive dolphins transferred from Barcelona to Greece](https://marineconnection.org/captive-dolphins-transferred-from-barcelona-to-greece/) - In 2018 we celebrated the news that the City of Barcelona had pledged to be 'cetacean free'. Since then many options for the dolphins future have been considered including moving the marine mammals to Attica Zoological Park in Greece. For many years Marine Connection supported the campaign to close Attica Park as, under Law 4039/2012
- [World Day For Captive Dolphins - 4 July 2020](https://marineconnection.org/world-day-for-captive-dolphins-4-july-2020/) - Today we remember the thousands of dolphins held in captivity around the globe for public display in the name of entertainment. Life for captive cetaceans may on the surface, appear harmless, but the reality is very different. Our video on the impact of captivity on dolphins can be seen here Please help us
- [8 June 2020 – celebrating the world’s oceans](https://marineconnection.org/8-june-2020-celebrating-the-worlds-oceans/) - World Oceans Day is held every year on 8th June to raise awareness of the vital importance of our oceans and the role they play in sustaining a healthy planet. This year Marine Connection joins the global movement calling on world leaders to protect 30% of our blue planet by 2030. By working together we
- [June is Orca Action Month](https://marineconnection.org/june-is-orca-action-month/) - Celebrating Southern Resident Orcas, icons of the Pacific Northwest and helping this endangered population by raising awareness of the threats they are facing. From the late 1960s, live captures of orcas for the entertainment industry resulted in a massive decline in this population. Although the last captures were in the 1970s, these orcas face potential
- [Cetaceans and Shipping Interactions / ship-strikes](https://marineconnection.org/cetaceans-and-shipping-interactions-ship-strikes/) - Ship collisions pose a significant threat to whales and dolphins worldwide and can occur in the world’s oceans where ships and cetaceans co-occur. Types of vessels documented in strikes include cargo ships, whale-watching boats, ferries, military vessels and all manner of private watercraft used for both commercial and recreational purposes. Read our latest report on
- [New dolphinarium in Bulgaria – help stop this!](https://marineconnection.org/new-dolphinarium-in-bulgaria-help-stop-this/) - As part of our ongoing work to raise awareness and stop new facilities being established to display captive dolphins and whales, Marine Connection routinely joins forces with other groups/individuals working on the ground in other countries. We are currently supporting the campaign by colleagues at The Last Cage to stop a dolphinarium being built within
- [Same sea but very different lives](https://marineconnection.org/same-sea-but-very-different-lives/) - Recent footage via VR.RU shows beluga whales living in two very different worlds - as four captive beluga whales swim around their small enclosed sea pens at Primorsky Oceanarium, Russia, a wild beluga whale comes to apparently check them out. Two belugas seen in Ussuri Bay in April 2020 were allegedly part of the larger
- [Empty The Tanks Day 09:05:20](https://marineconnection.org/empty-the-tanks-day-090520/) - Today thousands of advocates including we here at Marine Connection are taking part in a global virtual event to increase public awareness highlighting the plight of captive dolphins, whales and porpoises worldwide. Marine Connection believes that no cetacean should be taken from the wild or bred in captivity, and campaigns worldwide against them being held
- [Podcast : Discussing COVID-19 and phasing out the keeping of cetaceans in captivity](https://marineconnection.org/podcast-discussing-covid-19-and-phasing-out-the-keeping-of-cetaceans-in-captivity/) - Marine Connection Director, Margaux Dodds chats to Charlie Moores of 'War on Wildlife' to discuss the current COVID-19 crisis, the consequences this could have for captive whales and dolphins and why the charity is calling for all breeding and public display of cetaceans to end. LISTEN NOW Captive whales and dolphins have no voice -
- [Global lockdown - the impact on captive dolphins, whales and porpoises](https://marineconnection.org/global-lockdown-the-impact-on-captive-dolphins-whales-and-porpoises/) - Worldwide mankind is facing extremely challenging times both personally and professionally. As humans, we face the physical threat of the Corvid-19 virus, separation from our loved ones and for some, even complete isolation. The current situation raises further concerns for us as advocates speaking out for dolphins, whales and porpoises (cetaceans) living in confinement –
- [Potential captures of wild whales in Russian waters](https://marineconnection.org/potential-captures-of-wild-whales-in-russian-waters/) - Marine Connection welcomed the recent decision by the Government of the Russian Federation Russian to formally add the country’s transient killer whales that frequent the Kamchatka region to the Russian Red Book of Endangered Species. This action would give these marine mammals greater protection from the many threats they face, including being removed from the
- [A major step forward to protect Russian transient killer whales](https://marineconnection.org/a-major-step-forward-to-protect-russian-transient-killer-whales/) - Marine Connection welcomes the news that Russian transient killer whales are to be included in the Russian Red Book of endangered species, to take effect as soon as this entry is registered by the Ministry of Justice of the Russian Federation. Monitoring is very difficult in Russia due to tight secrecy surrounding killer whale captures
- [Marine Connection campaign ad wins prestigious award](https://marineconnection.org/marine-connection-campaign-ad-wins-prestigious-award/) - In December 2019, with support from the creative company Communicorp UK, Marine Connection launched its ‘No Containment For Entertainment’ campaign. Over several weeks four adverts, each with a different message, were broadcast on UK radio stations daily - specifically aimed at raising awareness about the plight of dolphins and whales in captivity. Our 'Jedol &
- [Marine plastic - deadly for ocean wildlife](https://marineconnection.org/marine-plastic-deadly-for-ocean-wildlife/) - For many, the ocean is simply something beautiful to look at, exciting to play in or around and a great source of enjoyment - but to dolphins and whales, it is home. Despite global concern regarding the impact of plastic increasing, at least 8 million tons of plastic end up in our oceans every year.
- [Lights on fishing nets helps save dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/lights-on-fishing-nets-helps-save-dolphins/) - Incidental capture in fishing operations is the biggest threat to whales, dolphins and porpoises globally but new research shows placing LED lights on gillnets reduces the chances of dolphins and other marine species being caught in the deadly gear. Between 2015 - 2018, researchers worked with small-scale vessels from three Peruvian ports placing 1,728 gillnets
- ['No Containment For Entertainment'](https://marineconnection.org/no-containment-for-entertainment/) - For almost three decades Marine Connection has been working to end the keeping of cetaceans in captivity. Our latest 'No Containment For Entertainment' campaign will be broadcast on several radio stations across the whole of the UK over the next four weeks; highlighting the issues captive whales, dolphins and porpoises endure daily and how you
- [Go 'Plastic Free' in July](https://marineconnection.org/go-plastic-free-in-july/) - Once again, we are supporting the Plastic Free July worldwide campaign. From today (July 1st), 250 million participants in 177 countries will be taking up the challenge of reducing the amount of single-use plastic in their everyday lives for 30 days. Plastic is found in all sorts of everyday items - coffee cups, takeaway boxes,
- [UK's first dolphin and porpoise conservation strategy launched](https://marineconnection.org/uks-first-dolphin-and-porpoise-conservation-strategy-launched/) - Plans for UK's first dolphin, whale and porpoise conservation strategy has been launched by the Scottish Government in collaboration with government departments across the UK, Northern Ireland and Wales. The aim is to develop consultation on the strategy to ensure effective management, to achieve and/or maintain *Favourable Conservation Status of the most common species of
- [Autopsy results on solitary dolphin death revealed](https://marineconnection.org/autopsy-results-on-solitary-dolphin-death-revealed/) - In late January of this year, Marine Connection reported about the death of a solitary female common dolphin named Sandy who had lived around Eckerförder Bay, Germany for approximately a year before being discovered dead on the ocean floor. Autopsy results have revealed that the dolphin, who was approximately six years of age, died of
- [Orca Skyla dies at Loro Parque, Tenerife](https://marineconnection.org/orca-skyla-dies-at-loro-parque-tenerife/) - We have received the news that Skyla, one of the female orcas died on March 11, 2021. Born in 2004 at SeaWorld Orlando, Skyla's mother was Kalina and her father Tilikum. At only two years of age, she was moved to Loro Parque in 2006 and was reported by the park to be in
- [Free online concert for dolphins and whales](https://marineconnection.org/free-online-concert-for-dolphins-and-whales/) - On March 19th, Moonly app is organizing a free, on-line music and meditation-concert entitled ‘Purification.’ The concert will allow anyone, no matter where they are based globally, to share and connect via music and visual art, as well as giving the opportunity of participating in a crystal meditation at the end of the event. Although
- [Change your life-not theirs](https://marineconnection.org/change-your-life-not-theirs/) - Marine Connection is often asked its opinion on what can be a life-changing experience - watching dolphins and whales in the wild. This is a difficult balance to strike, as a charity against the keeping of cetaceans in captivity, we would encourage people to see them in the wild, however, the impact that the growing
- [Buy a tee & protect our seas](https://marineconnection.org/buy-a-tee-protect-our-seas/) - It’s an extra special weekend! For every order made on Marine Connection's merchandise site until Sunday evening (21 February), one kg of ocean-bound plastic rubbish will be recovered and recycled - the equivalent of 50 plastic bottles. Together with our partners at Teemill, so far we have helped remove the equivalent of nearly one million
- [Shop with us this weekend - the planet gets a tree free](https://marineconnection.org/shop-with-us-this-weekend-the-planet-gets-a-tree-free/) - What have trees got to do with dolphins and whales you may ask? Tree planting can help tackle the crisis we now find our climate in as trees absorb a huge amount of carbon dioxide, which if released in the atmosphere, drives up ocean surface temperatures. This valentine weekend, our lovely partners at Teemill will
- [New documentary about Fungie - Dingle’s solitary dolphin](https://marineconnection.org/new-documentary-about-fungie-dingles-solitary-dolphin/) - It's now two months since the solitary male bottlenose dolphin known as Fungie, disappeared from the waters of Dingle in County Kerry, Ireland after making the bay his home for over 37 years. A new documentary ‘Fungie’s Kingdom’ is set to air on *RTÉ this Christmas, and explores the relationship between the town and its
- [Calling for the release of two wild-caught porpoises in Denmark](https://marineconnection.org/calling-for-the-release-of-two-wild-caught-porpoises-in-denmark/) - The ongoing issue of the Fjord & Baelt facility in Denmark being authorised to take wild-caught harbour porpoises for research is extremely concerning. Marine Connection agrees this needs to be addressed, and as an active member of Dolphinaria-Free Europe (DFE), we very much welcome the joint letter sent today from DFE coalition and World Animal
- [India issues cetacean stranding guidelines](https://marineconnection.org/india-issues-cetacean-stranding-guidelines/) - Over the past few years, there have been numerous strandings of dolphins, whales (and turtles) reported around India's coastline but, to date, there has been no collective database documenting when strandings occurred and in which areas, therefore valuable information has been lost. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change recently released its Marine Mega
- [Another beluga whale calf born in China](https://marineconnection.org/beluga-whale-calf-born-in-china/) - A beluga whale calf has been born at Guangzhou Zhengjia Polar Ocean World (southern China), the fifth to be born in the country. The mother gave birth in November 2020, however, the facility officially announced the news only this week, but it is not unusual following a birth for the facility to delay announcing the
- [Update on Parc Astérix dolphins move to Sweden](https://marineconnection.org/update-on-parc-asterix-dolphins-move-to-sweden/) - Marine Connection continues to liaise with Daniel Rolke our colleague at Djurrattsallians in Sweden who now advises that one of the two Parc Astérix dolphins which arrived at Kolmården Wildlife Park on January 23, 2021 is destined to be relocated to Nurenberg Zoo in Germany. The Swedish facility will temporarily hold the dolphin until Nurenberg
- [Parc Astérix to close its dolphinarium](https://marineconnection.org/parc-asterix-to-close-its-dolphinarium/) - Theme park Parc Astérix in France is to permanently close its dolphinarium. Their 8 dolphins and 5 sea lions will be moved to other parks within Europe over the next two months. Managing Director Nicolas Kremer, has not however confirmed any details on where the dolphins will be relocated to or the date on which
- [Phasing out cetacean captivity in South Korea](https://marineconnection.org/phasing-out-cetacean-captivity-in-south-korea/) - Marine Connection welcomes the news that the keeping of captive cetaceans in South Korea will eventually be banned due to a forthcoming amendment within the Zoo and Aquarium Management Act, which will not only ban the import/export and breeding of captive cetaceans but also stop new facilities being built. Direct interactions such as offering customers
- [ITV's Chasers disappoint by swimming with captive dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/itvs-chasers-disappoint-by-swimming-with-captive-dolphins/) - Anne Hegerty, Mark Labbett and Shaun Wallace from ITV's 'The Chase’ (a British television quiz show) take to the road in a new series Trains, Brains and Automobiles. The programme looks at intelligence and in Episode 1, the chasers investigate whether animal intelligence is underestimated, as part of this Hegerty, Labbett and Wallace visit Dolphin
- [Another bailout for Hong Kong Ocean Park](https://marineconnection.org/another-bailout-for-hong-kongs-ocean-park/) - It has been confirmed that troubled Hong Kong Ocean Park is to have even more money thrown at it from the government – this time a $361 million bailout loan! The latest funding request is the second in less than a year after the park obtained a government bailout of HK$5.4 billion in May 2020.
- [Testing whales’ hearing in the Norwegian Arctic](https://marineconnection.org/testing-whales-hearing-in-the-norwegian-arctic/) - In May of this year, a four-year project will commence in Norway which will involve the live capture of minke whales to test their hearing. A Norwegian-American team of scientists will set 1,300 metres of net across a strait by Vestvågøy island, where young minke whales are known to travel through every year on their
- [A dolphin’s life – virtually](https://marineconnection.org/a-dolphins-life-virtually/) - Marine Connection has teamed up with media production company Cyan Planet, to help produce a new educational ocean experience entitled How is the Water. By using the power of virtual reality, 360° video and immersive media tools, How is the Water is a story of our oceans seen through the eyes of a dolphin, taking
- [Boat owner fined for harassing dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/boat-owner-fined-for-harassing-dolphins/) - A boat owner who was spotted speeding towards, and clearly harassing, a pod of wild dolphins near Turtle Island, eastern Taiwan in August this year, has just been fined NT$20,000 (approx. £500 ) for breaching the Wildlife Conservation Act - the first such case in the nation that resulted in a penalty. The incident was
- [Martinha the lone dolphin dies](https://marineconnection.org/martinha-the-lone-dolphin-dies/) - In 2007, a six-month-old female common dolphin was found stranded on the coast of Portugal, after being taken to local rehabilitation facility CRAM-Q, she was named Martinha, and it was advised she would be held there until she regained her strength. Despite continued assurances that the dolphin would be rehabilitated and returned to the wild,
- [Update on Stop Sea Blasts UK campaign](https://marineconnection.org/update-on-stop-sea-blasts-uk-campaign/) - As an organisation that works tirelessly to protect dolphins and whales across the globe, Marine Connection continues to work with the Stop Sea Blasts campaign, launched in early November and led by Joanna Lumley to raise awareness about whales, dolphins and other marine life being injured/killed by the detonation of unexploded Second World War bombs
- [Captive dolphins at Australian facility could be retired to a sea sanctuary](https://marineconnection.org/captive-dolphins-at-australian-facility-could-be-retired-to-a-sea-sanctuary/) - A newly released report into three captive dolphins at Dolphin Marine Conservation Park in Coffs Harbour New South Wales, Australia, has recommended the state look into the feasibility of retiring the marine mammals to a sea sanctuary, living out the remainder of their years in a more natural environment and no longer performing. The report
- [All freshwater dolphin species now classified as endangered](https://marineconnection.org/all-freshwater-dolphin-species-now-classified-as-endangered/) - A report recently published by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), highlights that all four known freshwater dolphin species including the tucuxi dolphin in the Amazon river system, are now threatened with extinction. The impact of human activity is a driver for many species nearing extinction and the tucuxi population (a small grey dolphin
- [New insight on the distance some orcas will cover for a quick meal](https://marineconnection.org/new-insight-on-the-distance-some-orcas-will-cover-for-a-quick-meal/) - Researchers have documented some orcas covering hundreds of kilometres at incredible speeds between long-line fishing vessels for a quick meal, during a new study monitoring the marine predator’s interaction with blue-eye trevalla fishers off South East Australia. One particularly persistent killer whale swam more than 1,000 kilometres in 16 days and was repeatedly observed near
- [Jiji endures long truck journey for CT scan](https://marineconnection.org/jiji-endures-long-truck-journey-for-ct-scan/) - Jiji, a bottlenose dolphin held at Oita Marine Palace Aquarium in Umitamago, Japan has for the second time, undergone a CT scan to ascertain the cause of swelling in her tailstock area. Veterinarian Makio Yanagisawa stated in a recent article that the scan had detected lesions in the dolphin's spine, a disorder resulting from infection
- [Scotland adds four new Marine Protected Areas](https://marineconnection.org/scotland-adds-four-new-marine-protected-areas/) - On the 3rd December 2020, Scottish Ministers announced the designation of four further Nature Conservation Marine Protected Areas (NCMPA) and twelve Special Protection Areas (SPA). The areas include north-east Lewis, Sea of the Hebrides, Shiant East Bank and Southern Trench. A total of 230 sites are now subject to marine protection measures, covering around 227,622
- [New campaign video highlights threats to solitary cetaceans](https://marineconnection.org/new-campaign-video-highlights-threats-to-solitary-cetaceans/) - Marine Connection has been working for the protection of solitary/social dolphins and whales for many years and has launched a new public awareness campaign to highlight the threats facing these enigmatic marine mammals. Over time we have come to understand that whilst habituation is a danger to each and every solitary cetacean, their location, and
- [Shop to help turn the tide on plastic](https://marineconnection.org/help-turn-the-tide-on-plastic/) - Every year at least 8 million tons of plastic ends up in our oceans, making up 80% of all marine debris - a serious and sometimes fatal threat to dolphins and whales. Our partners at Teemill are supporting efforts to stop ocean plastic pollution by launching the 'One Tee One Kg' weekend - this means
- [Honouring Danny - Dorset's friendly dolphin](https://marineconnection.org/honouring-danny-dorsets-friendly-dolphin/) - Marine Connection is supporting a memorial project which has been launched for Danny, the much-loved solitary/social dolphin that frequented the waters around the Dorset coast (UK), who sadly died last month due to a vessel strike. Such is the depth of feeling for the loss of Danny, it was felt to recognise him in some
- [North Korea may be training dolphins for military purposes](https://marineconnection.org/north-korea-may-be-training-dolphins-for-military-purposes/) - New evidence suggests that North Korea is training dolphins for military purposes in a carbon-copy of America’s Navy programme. Comparisons to the marine mammal pens used by the U.S. Navy and Russian Navy suggest that the North Korean pens, spotted at a naval base in Nampo, on the west coast of the country, are sized
- [Calling for safer disposal of bombs at sea to protect cetaceans](https://marineconnection.org/calling-for-safer-disposal-of-bombs-at-sea-to-protect-cetaceans/) - A campaign led by UK actress Joanna Lumley and supported by Marine Connection is demanding offshore wind farm developers stop blowing up old war bombs that are lurking in British waters and devastating whales and dolphins. We are calling for the bombs to be burned out rather than detonated - a low order deflagration uses
- [Ruling will force Palmitos Park to close their dolphin facility](https://marineconnection.org/ruling-will-force-palmitos-park-to-close-their-dolphin-facility/) - In 2017 the Canary Islands Superior Court of Justice (TSJC), declared that the dolphin pool which had been constructed in 2010 within the Palmitos Zoological Park in Maspalomas, Gran Canaria had been built without the owners (Aspro) first obtaining the necessary permissions, and was therefore illegal. The owners had applied to expand in 2007, however
- [Decline in North Atlantic right whale population](https://marineconnection.org/decline-in-north-atlantic-right-whale-population/) - The North Atlantic right whale is one of the world’s most endangered large whale species and time to save this species is running out even faster than feared. A new population estimate from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows this whale population declined about 11% in 2018 - dropping from 412 right whales in
- [Amazing as more Scottish dolphins sighted in Denmark](https://marineconnection.org/incredible-news-more-scottish-dolphins-sighted-in-denmark/) - Photographer Lars Mikkelsen got a big surprise recently when out taking images of seals in Thyborøn canal, Denmark. Lars and his wife, Mai-Britt sighted a pod of dolphins chasing herring in the area and spent some time photographing the majestic marine mammals. On further investigation, it was revealed the dolphins were from the Moray Firth
- [Lethal interactions between a solitary bottlenose dolphin and harbour porpoises](https://marineconnection.org/lethal-interactions-between-a-solitary-bottlenose-dolphin-and-harbour-porpoises/) - Lethal aggression of bottlenose dolphins towards harbour porpoises has been reported in different parts of the world since the late 1990s. In a study recently published in BMC Zoology, researchers have looked at events that took place in the German Baltic Sea over three months in Autumn 2016 with regards to a known solitary dolphin
- [Volunteering with Marine Connection](https://marineconnection.org/volunteering-with-marine-connection/) - Members of the public often contact Marine Connection wanting to volunteer but not knowing what they can do unless they have actual marine experience - there is however always something supporters can do to help. No matter where you are based you can use your skills to help – be it designing marketing materials, assisting
- [A Dingle resident for over 35 years has gone missing - his name is Fungie](https://marineconnection.org/a-dingle-resident-for-over-35-years-has-gone-missing-his-name-is-fungie/) - Fungie was first spotted off the coast of County Kerry, Ireland in 1983 and has lived in and around Dingle Bay ever since, however, the male dolphin hasn't been sighted for some days which is highly unusual and the question is - where is Fungie? Locals and boat operators have been scouring the area and
- ['No-sailing-zone' between sailboats and killer whales introduced](https://marineconnection.org/no-sailing-zone-between-sailboats-and-killer-whales-introduced/) - In recent months off the coast of Galicia, northwest Spain, multiple sailing yachts (with a length equal to or less than 15 meters) have been damaged by killer whales ramming their hulls. Two vessels which were attacked by the whales on different days were left with damaged rudders and forced to request a tow back
- [Tragic history of Vancouver Aquarium’s captive narwhals](https://marineconnection.org/tragic-history-of-vancouver-aquariums-captive-narwhals/) - This year marks 50 years since the Vancouver Aquarium became the first in Canada to exhibit narwhals, with a young male (named Keela Luguk), being the first to arrive at the facility following his capture from Grise Fiord, Canada. Shortly afterwards more followed, meaning at one time Vancouver Aquarium held the largest collection of wild-caught,
- [Dolphin death at Acquario di Genova](https://marineconnection.org/dolphin-death-at-acquario-di-genova/) - We have received reports that one of the female dolphins known as Nau which was held at Acquario di Genova in Italy, has died. Nau was born at Gardaland Resort, Italy in 2001. Her mother Betty, wild-caught in Florida in 1983, is one of the last dolphins to have left the UK in the early
- [US authorises beluga import, however approval from Canada still required](https://marineconnection.org/us-authorises-beluga-import-however-approval-from-canada-still-required/) - An application by Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut, USA to import five captive-born beluga whales from Marineland, Niagara Falls, Canada for research has been passed by NMFS/NOAA, however strong restrictions with regards to breeding and use in performance have been put in place, meaning that plans by Mystic to include research on the belugas behaviour and
- [Largest stranding of Northern bottlenose whales in Ireland](https://marineconnection.org/largest-stranding-of-northern-bottlenose-whales-in-ireland/) - Six northern bottlenose whales have died in what has been described as the largest live stranding of the species in the country's history. The whales were discovered on Rossknowlagh Beach and with each of the adults whales weighing weigh 3 or 4 tonnes, very little can be done for these deep-diving offshore species when they
- [Lolita/Tokitae's 50 year sentence for committing no crime](https://marineconnection.org/lolita-tokitaes-50-year-sentence-for-committing-no-crime/) - Since being taken from the wild and her real family on 8 August 1970, Tokitae (aka Lolita) remains half a century later, confined to the smallest orca tank in the USA at Miami Seaquarium - we find that reprehensible. Marine Connection has long supported the call for this orca to be retired to a sanctuary
- [The positive use of drones - beluga whale rescued in Norway](https://marineconnection.org/the-positive-use-of-drones-beluga-whale-rescued-in-norway/) - There is nothing better than a search and rescue story – no matter who it is being rescued. In late July, the Wildlife Board of the Målselv municipality (Norway) was notified that a beluga whale was on its way up a river from the sea. This raised concerns as not only was it unusual for
- [Concern for released Russian beluga whales](https://marineconnection.org/concern-for-released-russian-beluga-whales/) - Residents of the Primorsky Territory in Russia's Far East are being urged not to interact with several wild beluga whales in the area, thought to be some of the captive whales released from the 'whale jail' in Srednyaya Bay last year. Social network videos clearly show the public touching and interacting with the whales in
- [Moray Firth dolphins do love to travel](https://marineconnection.org/moray-firth-dolphins-do-love-to-travel/) - Incredible and exciting news! A female bottlenose dolphin who has made the Isle of Man her home since last summer has been identified as Moonlight, one of the resident population of Moray Firth dolphins (Scotland). Colleagues at Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch have been monitoring the adult dolphin but also her calf born last autumn
- [Marine Connection partner with Ark & Sea](https://marineconnection.org/marine-connection-partner-with-ark-sea/) - We are pleased to announce that we have partnered with Australian-based company Ark & Sea who are helping raise funds to support our campaigns. Marine Connection receives 10% from every sale, but as a personal thank you from us all purchasers will also receive a 10% discount (by using our unique code 10MC) for supporting
- [Our new face mask range : protecting you and cetaceans](https://marineconnection.org/our-new-face-mask-range-protecting-you-and-cetaceans/) - As wearing face masks is becoming mandatory in countries around the world, Marine Connection were concerned to see reports in the media regarding the amount of waste being generated by disposable masks. Our aim is to do what we can to promote reducing the impact on our oceans and the marine life - and we
- [New dolphinarium under construction in China](https://marineconnection.org/new-dolphinarium-under-construction-in-china/) - A new facility to display dolphins, sea lions and seals is currently under construction in Quanzhou, a prefecture-level port city on the north bank of the Jin River, China. Accommodating up to 1,6000 visitors, the project is costing in the region of £20m and is due to open May 2021. Ukrainian based company NEMO is
- [North Atlantic Right Whale classed as Critically Endangered](https://marineconnection.org/north-atlantic-right-whale-classed-as-critically-endangered/) - The latest International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species reveals that the North Atlantic right whale has been moved from Endangered to Critically Endangered - with around 400 individuals left and fewer than 100 breeding females, the species is sadly heading to extinction. The total population of this whale species has
- [Beluga whale sighting off San Diego](https://marineconnection.org/beluga-whale-sighting-off-san-diego/) - Whale watchers recently caught a glimpse of something rather unusual - a beluga whale swimming in the waters off San Diego, California! Although not confirmed, it is likely the whale may have come from the resident population in the Cook Inlet Alaska. San Diego is still not where you would expect to find this Arctic
- [23 June 2010 - the day Morgan was taken from the wild](https://marineconnection.org/23-june-2010-the-day-morgan-was-taken-from-the-wild/) - The female orca now known as Morgan was 'rescued' in the Wadden Sea off the north-western coast of the Netherlands, in June 2010 after being discovered alone, underweight and malnourished. The young orca's capture was authorised on the provision that she would not be put on public display and that once recovered, would be released
- [A young girl's whale of a tale](https://marineconnection.org/a-young-girls-whale-of-a-tale/) - This epic short film “The Girl with the Whale” by ad company Ogilvy was specifically created to raise awareness about the 2 million tons of plastic waste produced every year in Thailand. It carries the message that no one is too small to make a change and what happens to a single life will have
- [Dolphins harassed by irresponsible jet skiers](https://marineconnection.org/dolphins-harassed-by-irresponsible-jet-skiers/) - Despite cetaceans in UK waters being protected by wildlife legislation, in recent weeks there have been several reports of dolphins being harassed by people on jet skis and personal watercraft around the English coastline. Concerns were raised over a pod of dolphins in Weymouth Bay (Dorset) when a number of boats and jet skis were
- [Facing extinction - time is running out](https://marineconnection.org/facing-extinction-time-is-running-out/) - Only found in the Sea of Cortez, Mexico the population of Vaquita has been in dramatic decline due to the use of gill-nets. Vaquita are frequently caught in these nets (as bycatch), and unable to surface to breathe, they drown. In 2016 a permanent ban in the legal use of gillnets was brought into force,
- [Solitary dolphin Zafar is found dead](https://marineconnection.org/solitary-dolphin-zafar-is-found-dead/) - LATEST UPDATE 13:05:20 Necropsy carried out shows Zafar was hit by some type of vessel, (probably a boat or ship) suffering major damage to his body by the collision. It's thought his missing tail fluke was due to a propeller strike. His stomach was full of fish, indicating he was otherwise a healthy animal. Such
- [Hong Kong's Ocean Park faces closure](https://marineconnection.org/hong-kongs-ocean-park-faces-closure/) - Ocean Park, Hong Kong could go out of business by the end of June if no financial assistance is forthcoming. The theme park is seeking approval from legislators for an urgent bailout of $696 million (HK$5.4 billion) with some $387 million (HK$3 billion) of that required to pay off a commercial loan. Leo Kung Lin-cheng,
- [Dolphin at uShaka Marine World dies](https://marineconnection.org/dolphin-at-ushaka-marine-world-dies/) - Gambit, one of the bottlenose dolphins at uShaka Marine World, South Africa, has died. Thought to be around 48 years of age, he was one of 10 dolphins at the facility which either perform in shows twice daily for the paying spectators at the Dolphin Stadium ( currently closed due to COVID-19) or are held
- [Join the UK 2.6 Challenge to support our work](https://marineconnection.org/join-the-uk-2-6-challenge-to-support-our-work/) - This is your chance to be a hero for dolphins and whales from your living room or garden! Sunday 26 April 2020 should be the date of the London Marathon, the world’s biggest one-day annual fundraising event but due to COVID-19 pandemic this, along with many other charity events, has been cancelled. The charity sector
- [Honey the dolphin dies alone](https://marineconnection.org/honey-the-dolphin-dies-alone/) - Inubozaki Marine Park in Japan has announced its lone female dolphin known as Honey, has died. There have long been concerns for the conditions of squalor and dirt that Honey was being held in, for over two years Marine Connection has been continuing its campaign to have Honey moved to another facility, consistently urging the
- [Share the love this Mother’s Day – a gift for mum and mother earth!](https://marineconnection.org/share-the-love-this-mothers-day-a-gift-for-mum-and-mother-earth/) - Everyone knows that our clothing range is ethically produced from organic materials but that's not the case for all clothing. Each year 40% of the 1 billion items of clothing produced around the world goes straight to landfill, help us cut down CO2 pollution further simply by purchasing from our online shop. From the 13-15
- [Enhanced protection measures for North Atlantic right whales](https://marineconnection.org/enhanced-protection-measures-for-north-atlantic-right-whales/) - Entanglement in fishing gear and vessel strikes are among the leading causes of North Atlantic right whale mortality and over the past several years, there have been comprehensive measures in place to help protect this species from such impacts. Canada's government recently announced enhanced measures to further reduce risks to these iconic marine mammals during
- [Mum, Mom, Ma, Mama, Mutter, Ahm, Mere ...](https://marineconnection.org/mum-mom-ma-mama-mutter-ahm-mere/) - No matter how you say it, celebrate Mother's Day with that unique gift whilst raising funds for Marine Connection. This Mother's Day (22 March) by ordering via Give As You Live, choosing from the vast range of gifts, cards and flowers from over 4,400 retailers - means a percentage of your online spend will be
- [Gray whale strandings more likely during solar storms](https://marineconnection.org/gray-whale-strandings-more-likely-during-solar-storms/) - Gray whales have one of the longest migrations of all marine mammals, travelling between 10,000 and 12,000 miles each year. They complete a round trip between Mexico's warm waters for mating and the Arctic for feeding, remaining near the shore throughout their lengthy journey, making tracking them a little easier. Scientists do not however entirely
- [The show is finally over for Lotty](https://marineconnection.org/the-show-is-finally-over-for-lotty/) - Marineland Antibes, France has announced the death of Lotty, one of the female dolphins held at the facility who recently suffered from an infection. Marineland report Lotty to be around 40 years old however Marine Connection records show her as being approximately 1-year-old when captured from the wild in Florida waters on 19 March 1983
- [Want to get on your bike for charity?](https://marineconnection.org/want-to-get-on-your-bike-for-charity/) - Join 20,000 cyclists taking on the world-famous 100-mile route of the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey charity event - the largest and most sought after sportive in the UK. Competition for a spot in this race is fierce, with thousands missing out on the ballot places every year, but the good news is that Marine Connection has two
- [Need some help planning your 2020 adventures?](https://marineconnection.org/need-some-help-planning-your-2020-adventures/) - Whether you are looking for weekend breaks in the UK, adventures close to home or epic expeditions in magical far off distant places, our exciting charity challenges have it covered. Meet new people and enjoy experiences/places you’ve never seen before while helping to raise funds to support the work of Marine Connection. If trekking isn't
- [Loro Parque to expand orca enclosure](https://marineconnection.org/loro-parque-to-expand-orca-enclosure/) - Wolfgang Kiessling, owner of Loro Parque on Tenerife, Spain, says he now plans to proceed with their project to build a larger enclosure for the orcas currently housed at the facility. According to Kiessling, the company has purchased plots of land around the park, planning to relocate the aquarium which is currently next to the
- [Orca still entangled in fishing gear](https://marineconnection.org/orca-still-entangled-in-fishing-gear/) - Colleague Dr Ingrid Visser recently confirmed that an orca in New Zealand waters which had been the subject of a rescue effort last month still has crayfish line wrapped around both pectoral fins. The adult male orca first became entangled in a crayfish pot line, near Tutukaka Harbour in December last year. Despite tremendous efforts
- [Moray Firth dolphin returns from Ireland](https://marineconnection.org/moray-firth-dolphin-returns-from-ireland/) - Spirtle one of the female bottlenose dolphins usually seen around the Moray Firth, Scotland recently returned to her home waters after spending the summer months, accompanied by not only her mother but other members of the Moray Firth dolphin population, in the waters off Kerry on Ireland’s south-west coast. These sightings in Ireland were the
- [Second time lucky for Danny the lone dolphin](https://marineconnection.org/second-time-lucky-for-danny-the-lone-dolphin/) - The UK has had in excess of 18 solitary cetaceans around our coastline with records going back to the 1960s, and in 2018 a male bottlenose dolphin appeared around the shoreline of Dorset, which locals have nicknamed Danny. In October 2019, Danny was successfully freed by a local boat owner after becoming entangled in a
- [Giving Tuesday - the global day of giving](https://marineconnection.org/giving-tuesday-the-global-day-of-giving/) - Today everyone everywhere can pledge to do something to support the good causes that mean so much to them. You can help make a big difference by donating your expertise and experience - be it designing marketing materials, blogging, assisting with campaigns or research. No matter what your skills are or where you are based
- [Stranded whale had stomach full of plastic debris](https://marineconnection.org/stranded-whale-had-stomach-full-of-plastic-debris/) - A male sperm whale which died after stranding on the Isle of Harris (Scotland) was found to have various items of debris in its stomach which included fishing nets, rope, packing straps, bags and plastic cups. A necropsy carried by the Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme (SMASS) found the whale wasn't in particularly poor condition
- [Action Alert - help stop beluga transfers from Canada](https://marineconnection.org/action-alert-help-stop-beluga-transfers-from-canada/) - Despite Bill S-203 being passed in Canada to ban future imports and exports of captive whales, dolphins and porpoises, permits to move two beluga whales from Marineland, Canada to L’Oceanogràfic in Valencia, Spain as part of a research project were apparently approved. It has been revealed that there are also plans to move five belugas
- [Is this whale calf the latest victim of deadly ocean plastic?](https://marineconnection.org/is-this-whale-calf-the-latest-victim-of-deadly-ocean-plastic/) - A young male sperm whale calf found dead on a Welsh beach (UK) had plastic sheeting and ropes in its stomach, a post-mortem examination has discovered. The juvenile was found to be underweight and malnourished when examined by experts from the Zoological Society of London's cetacean strandings investigation programme. Evidence of potential underlying issues with
- [Dolphin Discovery expected to return to British Virgin Islands](https://marineconnection.org/dolphin-discovery-expected-to-return-to-british-virgin-islands/) - The government of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and the management of Dolphin Discovery are close to finalising contractual arrangements that would result in the commencement of works at a section of Prospect Reef Hotel and Resort, Tortola to facilitate the return of a ‘Swim with the Dolphins’ programme. In 2017 Hurricane Irma ravaged the
- [Mass cetacean stranding off West Africa](https://marineconnection.org/mass-cetacean-stranding-off-west-africa/) - Last week more than 130 melon-headed whales (a member of the dolphin family) died on the island of Boa Vista (Cape Verde) in a mysterious mass stranding event. Despite rescue efforts to return the animals back out to sea, the majority of the whales returned to the shore where they died. Spanish veterinarians from the
- [Fungie the record breaker!](https://marineconnection.org/fungie-the-record-breaker/) - Marine Connection is delighted to announce that Fungie the dolphin has secured his place in the Guinness World Records as the longest-lived solitary dolphin. First sighted off the coast of Dingle in County Kerry, Ireland, in the early 1980s, this majestic marine mammal, estimated to be at least 40 years old, is still living in
- [Struggling to find that perfect gift?](https://marineconnection.org/struggling-to-find-that-perfect-gift/) - Our multi-store gift card is perfect for family and friends, redeemable at over 100 high-street retailers including John Lewis, H&M, HomeSense and Currys PC World. Perfect for Fashion lovers, Foodies, Sports nuts and DIYers and what makes this card even better is that each purchase automatically helps raise free funds for Marine Connection - all
- [Tighter security location for military whales](https://marineconnection.org/tighter-security-location-for-military-whales/) - It appears the Russian military moved some of their trained beluga whales to Olenya Bay, off the coast of the Barents Sea earlier this year and satellite images show there has been unusual increased security around the pens to make sure the current whales cannot escape. This may have arisen due to a lone beluga
- [Critical habitat for southern resident killer whales](https://marineconnection.org/critical-habitat-for-southern-resident-killer-whales/) - Endangered whales living off the coast of Seattle could soon have more protected habitat as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have issued a proposal to increase the critical habitat designation for the southern resident killer whales by more than sevenfold under the Endangered Species Act. If approved this would greatly expand the area
- [English Channel dolphins burdened with toxins](https://marineconnection.org/english-channel-dolphins-burdened-with-toxins/) - A study has found dolphins living in the English Channel have high concentrations of mercury in the skin and polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, in their blubber - some of the highest recorded levels of toxic chemicals and mercury in the bodies of bottlenose dolphins off the French coast. Researchers took skin biopsies during boat surveys
- [Two beluga whales to be exported from Marineland, Canada to L'Oceanogràfic, Spain](https://marineconnection.org/two-beluga-whales-to-be-exported-from-marineland-canada-to-loceanografic-spain/) - Despite a recent law being put in place banning the import and export of captive whales, dolphins and porpoises in Canada (S-203), Fisheries Minister Jonathan Wilkinson has approved permits to move the whales from Marineland in Canada to L'Oceanogràfic in Valencia, Spain as part of a research project. This decision, coming so soon after this recent
- [New protection for bottlenose dolphins in Bay of Islands, NZ](https://marineconnection.org/new-protection-for-bottlenose-dolphins-in-bay-of-islands-nz/) - The New Zealand Department of Conservation has banned tourists from swimming with bottlenose dolphins off the North Island’s Bay of Islands after human interaction was negatively impacting on the lives of the marine mammals. Research has shown that humans were “loving the dolphins too much” and interactions were “having a significant impact on the population’s
- [Authorities unresponsive on concerns over dolphin calf death at Festa Dolphinarium Varna](https://marineconnection.org/authorities-unresponsive-on-concerns-over-dolphin-calf-death-at-fiesta-varna/) - Following the death of a young dolphin calf at the above facility, reportedly during a live performance, Marine Connection immediately contacted the Mayor of Varna Municipality, to voice our concern and requesting his response on this. We also asked him to investigate general conditions at the facility as the tanks are clearly in a condition
- [Howzat!  Qantas latest airline to bowl out dolphin and whale shows](https://marineconnection.org/howzat-qantas-latest-airline-to-bowl-out-dolphin-and-whale-shows/) - Qantas has joined the growing number of airlines/tour operators who pledge not to partner with facilities which hold captive dolphins or whales. A spokesperson for Qantas said, “We don’t promote these types of venues. As Australia’s largest airline we know we have a responsibility to ensure organisations we partner with meet our own expectations and
- [Limited edition 'Sanctuary' t-shirt](https://marineconnection.org/limited-edition-sanctuary-t-shirt/) - Marine Connection has teamed up with Colorado-based company FLOAT (For Love Of All Things) to further raise awareness about orcas in captivity and promote the seaside sanctuary concept. In association with the charity, FLOAT has created this unique limited edition 'Sanctuary' design, on t-shirts and vests in assorted colours. This is available to purchase for
- [Will the Southern resident orcas become extinct?](https://marineconnection.org/will-the-southern-resident-orcas-become-extinct/) - The southern resident orca population has fallen to only 73 after three adult killer whales were presumed dead as of July 1, 2019 by colleagues at the Center for Whale Research. That is down from a high of 98 just 20 years ago. The orcas have historically frequented the Salish Sea in summer months, but
- [A note of thanks to Virgin Holidays and United Airlines](https://marineconnection.org/a-note-of-thanks-to-virgin-holidays-and-united-airlines/) - Thank you for deciding to put the welfare of dolphins and whales before profit by ending your support of SeaWorld. We hope that others will follow your lead, and just for one moment think what it is like to: live life in captivity having done nothing unlawful never see the ocean have to perform or
- [Loro Parque’s ‘Encyclopedia of Anti-Captivity Arguments’](https://marineconnection.org/loro-parques-encyclopedia-of-anti-captivity-arguments/) - Recently, the Spanish theme park Loro Parque produced a document, the ‘Encyclopedia of Anti-Captivity Arguments,’ in which they attempt to rebut quoted statements from various sources expressing an anti-captivity viewpoint. Many of these statements were made by the undersigned or the organisations we represent. We welcome any opportunity to add clarity to the debate over
- [‘Lone Rangers’ solitary, social dolphins and whales – the fascination continues](https://marineconnection.org/lone-rangers-solitary-social-dolphins-and-whales-the-fascination-continues/) - In 2008, Marine Connection launched its first ‘Lone Rangers’ report, historically documenting solitary cetaceans around the world. The new, updated Second Edition has just been released and covers solitaries from the 1950s to date. At time of publishing (July 2019), there have been 114 cases recorded worldwide with bottlenose dolphins being the most commonly found
- [Swimming with wild whales](https://marineconnection.org/swimming-with-wild-whales/) - Tonga is one of the few places in the world where you can swim with humpback whales but at what cost to the animals? A new study by New Zealand's AUT University has found tourists swimming with humpbacks whales in northern Tonga are disturbing the mother-calf pairs. Drone footage captured mother whales dive deeper to
- [Another dolphin birth at Planete Sauvage, France](https://marineconnection.org/another-dolphin-birth-at-planete-sauvage-france/) - On May 7th, Planete Sauvage announced that the bottlenose dolphin known as Parel had given birth to a calf weighing around 12kg. This is the fourth birth at the park and the second calf for Parel who in 2016 gave birth to a male calf known as Nouma. In 2015 Parel also gave birth to
- [Virgin Holidays to stop selling tickets to SeaWorld](https://marineconnection.org/virgin-holidays-to-stop-selling-tickets-to-seaworld/) - Marine Connection welcomes the news today from Virgin Holidays that the company is to cease selling tickets to SeaWorld attractions and also, we believe, the Atlantis parks in Dubai and the Bahamas. We have been in contact with Joe Thompson, Managing Director of Virgin Holidays regarding their decision. It is our sincere hope that given
- [Dolphin dies at National Aquarium, USA](https://marineconnection.org/dolphin-dies-at-national-aquarium-usa/) - Maya, one of seven dolphins at the National Aquarium, Baltimore, has died after experiencing liver problems, inflammation and digestive issues. She first began showing signs of illness earlier this year and the decision to euthanize the dolphin was made at the weekend after her health declined within days. Maya was born at the aquarium in
- [Southern resident killer whales are back home!](https://marineconnection.org/southern-resident-killer-whales-are-back/) - Marine Connection welcomes the news that members of J, K and L pods have been seen on the West Coast of Vancouver and with them, the little youngster who scientists believe was born in late May. They have designated her J56 and is the second calf born in the last five months to the southern
- [Feeding wild dolphins puts populations at risk](https://marineconnection.org/feeding-wild-dolphins-puts-populations-at-risk/) - New research has found tourism operators could be putting dolphin populations at risk by allowing them to be fed by visitors to Western Australia (WA). The study from Murdoch University, which looked at more than 60 dolphins around the Bunbury area, found dolphins which were not fed by the Bunbury Discovery Centre were two times more
- [Where are the whales?](https://marineconnection.org/where-are-the-whales/) - Whale researchers say it's unprecedented that the southern resident killer whales are nowhere to be seen this year. The whales (J, K and L pods) are usually feeding on chinook salmon in the Salish Sea by July but so far this summer, the whales haven't been seen in the area at all except for one visit
- [World Day for Captive Dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/world-day-for-captive-dolphins/) - Today we remember the thousands of dolphins held in captivity around the world. Living in the confines of tanks and sea pens, with a very different and limited social environment to that they would enjoy in the wild - all to entertain the public and make a profit for the zoos, marine parks and companies
- [Check out our latest anti-captivity design!](https://marineconnection.org/check-out-our-latest-anti-captivity-design/) - As the summer holiday season approaches sadly many people still consider visiting a marine park to see dolphins or whales in captivity as a holiday excursion of choice, this is partly due to the fact that tour operators still promote this to their customers. Please help speak out for captive dolphins and whales this holiday
- [Donating - it doesn't have to be a financial contribution](https://marineconnection.org/donating-it-doesnt-have-to-be-a-financial-contribution/) - Passionate about dolphins and whales and want to protect them? No matter where you live globally, you can still support the work of Marine Connection and help make a big difference to the lives of dolphins and whales by donating your expertise and skills to our cause – be it graphic design, blogging, PR/media skills
- [Hundreds of dolphin deaths along US Gulf coast](https://marineconnection.org/hundreds-of-dolphin-deaths-along-us-gulf-coast/) - More than 261 bottlenose dolphins have stranded across much of the US Gulf Coast since early February 2019, triple the usual number, with about 98 percent of dying. Scientists are to investigate whether lingering effects from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill (also referred to as the BP oil spill/leak) and more immediate effects from
- [Shop small - dream BIG!](https://marineconnection.org/shop-small-dream-big/) - Just one little bead can help us make a difference ... It is said that jewellery is a very personal thing and should say something about the person wearing it - so why not show your commitment to protecting dolphins and whales by wearing one of Marine Connection's beads inspired by the tail flukes of
- [Historic win for dolphins and whales in Canada](https://marineconnection.org/historic-win-for-dolphins-and-whales-in-canada/) - We are delighted to report that yesterday 10 June, Bill S-203, the Ending the Captivity of Whales and Dolphins Act was passed in Canada. As the legislation bans the holding, capture, breeding and trade in any cetacean, this means that the animals currently held in the two remaining facilities in Canada will be the last
- [Latest update on Honey the lone dolphin at Inubosaki](https://marineconnection.org/latest-update-on-honey-the-lone-dolphin-at-inubosaki/) - Inubosaki Marine Park Aquarium, Japan is located in the Pacific coastal city of Choshi. The park closed in early 2018 yet the dolphin and other animals including penguins remain there in totally unacceptable conditions. Marine Connection continues its campaign to have Honey moved to another facility, however Chiba prefectural government's Kaiso Public Health Center, who
- [Disappointing news – court rules against objections to dolphin facility at Puerto Seco Beach Club](https://marineconnection.org/disappointing-news-court-rules-against-objections-to-dolphin-facility-at-puerto-seco-beach-club/) - In January this year, Marine Connection wrote to Jamaican Prime Minister, Andrew Holness adding our support to concerns already raised locally by marine scientists of the University of The West Indies Marine Lab, The Discovery Bay Community Development Committee, The Fishermen's Cooperative of Discovery Bay and our colleagues at Jamaica Environment Trust (JET). We objected
- [Did you know that June is Orca Month?](https://marineconnection.org/did-you-know-that-june-is-orca-month/) - Orca Month was started in 2006 by long-time colleagues of Marine Connection at Orca Network, to raise awareness and bring together researchers, advocates and orca lovers everywhere. Now in its 13th year, Orca Month events span the three states of Washington, Oregon and British Columbia, focusing once again on the plight of the southern resident
- [China’s rapidly expanding captive cetacean industry](https://marineconnection.org/chinas-rapidly-expanding-captive-cetacean-industry/) - China Cetacean Alliance (CCA) recently published the second edition of their report “OCEAN THEME PARKS: A Look Inside China’s Growing Captive Cetacean Industry". The report is the culmination of hard investigative work and research into the multi-billion dollar cetacean captivity industry in China by its alliance members. This updated report documents the changes since the
- [The Southern Residents - Fading Sound](https://marineconnection.org/the-southern-residents-fading-sound/) - The plight of the Southern Resident Killer Whale community and their dwindling food source has been long reported, and this situation is escalating. There are many in the local community around Puget Sound and the Pacific North West, some of who are featured in this documentary, doing their utmost to ensure the killer whales survival
- [Eni UK suspends oil and gas survey plan](https://marineconnection.org/eni-uk-suspends-oil-and-gas-survey-plan/) - Marine Connection welcomes the news that Eni UK, an international energy company has suspended its application to carry out an oil and gas survey in Cardigan Bay, Wales, UK. The area has a large resident population of bottlenose dolphins and hundreds of porpoises. In March, Eni UK had applied for permission to carry out the
- [New rules planned to protect spinner dolphins in Hawaiian waters](https://marineconnection.org/new-rules-planned-to-protect-spinner-dolphins-in-hawaiian-waters/) - Marine Connection welcomes the news that officials from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) officials are in the final review stages of rules that would ban members of the public swimming with Hawaiian spinner dolphins. Officials are nearing completion of regulations proposed almost three years ago that would create a 46-metre barrier around the
- [Whales to be freed miles from their home waters](https://marineconnection.org/whales-to-be-freed-miles-from-their-home-waters/) - Despite months of talks over the fate of the wild caught orcas and beluga whales currently held in Srednyaya Bay, Russia the Ministry of Natural Resources recently announced that the orcas would be freed directly into the waters where their holding pens are located rather than being transported back to their original habitat in the
- [Rare cetacean species spotted in the South China Sea](https://marineconnection.org/rare-cetacean-species-spotted-in-the-south-china-sea/) - A Chinese scientific research team while carrying out the world's first expedition to study deep diving and pelagic cetacean species in the South China Sea, spotted sperm whales and other elusive cetaceans. Sperm whales and striped dolphins were discovered in the area after the 14-day investigation which was conducted in an area about 400 km
- [It's time to 'Empty The Tanks'](https://marineconnection.org/its-time-to-empty-the-tanks/) - May 11 is the 7th annual Empty the Tanks day. Around the world dolphin and whale advocates will be supporting the event and ongoing campaigns to end the keeping of cetaceans in captivity. Protests are taking place in many locations - where will you be?
- [World Oceans Day 8 June 2019 - a global celebration!](https://marineconnection.org/world-oceans-day-8-june-2019-a-global-celebration/) - World Oceans Day is held every year on 8 June to raise awareness of the importance of our oceans and the role they play in sustaining a healthy planet. 8 June is marked globally in a variety of ways, including launching new campaigns and initiatives, beach clean-ups, educational and conservation action programs, art contests, film
- [Beluga whale transfers ahead of Bill S-203](https://marineconnection.org/beluga-whale-transfers-ahead-of-bill-s-203/) - It has been revealed that Vancouver Aquarium plans to export two beluga whales, owned by them but currently held at Marineland, Niagara to L'Oceanogràfic in Valencia, Spain. The Spanish park is owned by Parques Reunidos but managed by Vancouver Aquarium. Banned from acquiring more cetaceans by the Vancouver Parks Board in 2017, the Aquarium currently
- [Measures to prevent whale strikes introduced](https://marineconnection.org/measures-to-prevent-whale-strikes-introduced/) - Members of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) have approved new measures that would instruct member operators whilst around humpback whales to commit to either a 10kn speed restriction within a specific geo-fenced time-area on the Antarctic Peninsula or, for member operators who have a whale strike mitigation training program, an extra watchman
- [Addressing ‘aboriginal’ whaling in the Caribbean](https://marineconnection.org/addressing-aboriginal-whaling-in-the-caribbean/) - Following the recent killing of two humpback whales in waters off St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVAG), Marine Connection supporter musician Bryan Adams, successfully intercepted whalers whilst in Mustique attempting to hunt down and kill another humpback whale in the 1,000-metre conservation zone, putting himself and his SUP board between the whalers and the animal.
- [Dolphin found with plastic bags and balloon in her stomach](https://marineconnection.org/dolphin-found-with-plastic-bags-and-balloon-in-her-stomach/) - A necropsy recently carried out on a female rough-toothed dolphin calf which stranded on Florida’s Fort Myers Beach revealed her stomach contained pieces of plastic debris. Sadly, while the find is significant it isn’t totally surprising given the about of plastic and other man-made debris in our oceans today. The dolphin was so emaciated and
- [Supporting ethical wildlife tourism](https://marineconnection.org/supporting-ethical-wildlife-tourism/) - Marine Connection has joined forces with Drifter’s Guide To The Planet - a company committed to animal-friendly tourism. We will be working with Drifter’s Guide to raise awareness about dolphins and whales, to inspire travellers not to visit facilities which keep cetaceans in captivity and instead watch these marine mammals responsibly in the wild. In
- [Parques Reunidos fined for keeping dolphins in unsuitable conditions](https://marineconnection.org/parques-reunidos-fined-for-keeping-dolphins-in-unsuitable-conditions/) - Parques Reunidos has been fined 800 Euros for keeping dolphins in ‘human wave pool’ for months - the depth was less than two metres and had no shade for the animals. In 2017, we reported that eight dolphins had been transferred from Selwo Marina, Malaga to other Spanish facilities owned by the company whilst work
- [Protect Our Species  Earth Day 22:04:19](https://marineconnection.org/protect-our-species-earth-day-220419/) - All living things have an intrinsic value, and each plays a unique role in the complex web of life. We must work together to protect endangered and threatened species, if we do not act now, extinction may be humanity’s most enduring legacy. The rapid extinction of species in our world today is the result of
- [Update on Honey - the dolphin left alone in a Japanese marine park](https://marineconnection.org/update-on-honey-the-dolphin-left-alone-in-a-japanese-marine-park/) - Marine Connection has received confirmation that Inubosaki Marine Park is under new ownership and due to re-open in June of this year. There were rumours that Honey was going to be moved to China, however, this may have been due to the fact that the new owner of the company is from China, but the
- [Become a shopping Superhero for dolphins & whales](https://marineconnection.org/become-a-shopping-superhero-for-dolphins-whales/) - Give As You Live week has arrived! If you love online shopping and live in the UK, with offers/discounts from top retailers, boosted donation rates and the chance to win a £500 donation for Marine Connection with every shop you complete, it's a smart consumer choice. When you visit a retailer via Give as you
- [Bryde’s whales in Gulf of Mexico are endangered](https://marineconnection.org/brydes-whales-in-gulf-of-mexico-are-endangered/) - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration scientists say a tiny group of whales in the Gulf of Mexico is endangered, with threats including oil and gas exploration, along with oil spills and cleanup. The marine mammal is also susceptible to collisions with boats and ocean noise from human activity. Bryde's (pronounced "broodus") whales are the only
- [J34 skeleton goes on display](https://marineconnection.org/j34-skeleton-goes-on-display/) - The skeleton of J34, a male southern resident killer whale found dead in December 2016, will soon be on display for the public to view as an exhibit at the Tems Swiya Museum, British Columbia. Weighing 450 pounds and approximately 22 feet long, the skeleton is all that’s left of the large male orca who
- [Give a helping hand to dolphins & whales](https://marineconnection.org/give-a-helping-hand-to-dolphins-whales/) - It's almost Easter - but it's not all about chocolate! Why not buy your friends and family something different this Easter and help dolphins and whales too - at no extra cost to you! The Amazon (UK) spring sale is on until 15 April offering exciting deals of thousands of products, and what's more with
- [Evidence of boat strikes on whales in Hawaiian waters](https://marineconnection.org/evidence-of-boat-strikes-on-whales-in-hawaiian-waters/) - Drones used to capture images of humpback whales in Hawaiian waters over the winter months has found evidence that many of the whales have been subjected to both boat strikes as well as fishing gear entanglement. Scientists conducted over 125 drone flights to assess the body condition of the whales, including their size - with
- [Saddle up for dolphins & whales!](https://marineconnection.org/saddle-up-for-dolphins-whales/) - On Sunday 4 August 2019 why not join thousands of other cycling enthusiasts for the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 to help raise funds to support Marine Connection's work to protect dolphins and whales. Hailed as one of the cycling’s greatest festivals, this is a bike riding challenge like no other - through London and Surrey on
- [Ecuador says no to new dolphin facility](https://marineconnection.org/ecuador-says-no-to-new-dolphin-facility/) - Waterland, Mundo Marino the company which currently operates a marine park holding dolphins and sealions in Isla Margarita, Venezuela recently applied to build a dolphinarium in Chichipe, Salinas in the province of Santa Elena, Ecuador. Marine Connection supported a letter petitioning the President of Ecuador, the National Assembly and the Minister of Tourism requesting that
- [Why dolphins belong in the wild](https://marineconnection.org/why-dolphins-belong-in-the-wild/) - Colleague Karen Munro, a resident of Scrabster in the north of Scotland had a pleasant surprise recently when she spotted some dolphins close to her home. After capturing several images of the dolphins, it was later confirmed that the majority of the animals belonged to the Moray Firth bottlenose dolphin population - usually sighted approx
- [Port River dolphins suffer further calf losses](https://marineconnection.org/port-river-dolphins-suffer-further-calf-losses/) - Two more new-born dolphins called Merlin and Tinsel have died in Adelaide's Port River (Australia) over the past week and the death rate is now exceeding the natural rate expected for a wild dolphin pod. About 40-50 dolphins live in the Port River, which leads to Port Adelaide's inner harbour and the latest death puts
- [40kg of plastic found in stomach of dead whale](https://marineconnection.org/40kg-of-plastic-found-in-stomach-of-dead-whale/) - Forty kilograms of selected plastic debris have been found inside the stomach of a juvenile Cuvier's beaked whale which recently washed ashore dead in Barangay Cadunan, Philippines. The necropsy revealed a multiple selection of items inside the stomach of the marine mammal, including 16 rice sacks, a plastic bag used in banana plantations and multiple
- [Deadly ghost net discovered on UK beach](https://marineconnection.org/deadly-ghost-net-discovered-on-uk-beach/) - A large ‘ghost net’ was recently washed up on Marazion beach in Cornwall, UK. Ghost netting is a term used to describe nets lost or deliberately left in the ocean by fishermen often because it is the easiest and least expensive way to dispose of them. Each year this deadly, silent floating debris kills thousands
- [Aerial survey of Black Sea dolphins announced](https://marineconnection.org/aerial-survey-of-black-sea-dolphins-announced/) - Head of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Ukraine, Ostap Semerak recently announced that plans have been put in place for a 2-year project to conduct an aerial survey of dolphins in the *Black Sea, starting summer 2019. It is thought that today only three species of marine mammals inhabit the Black Sea;
- [Possible new species of killer whale discovered](https://marineconnection.org/possible-new-species-of-killer-whale-discovered/) - A new species of killer whale may have been discovered after two dozen distinctively different orcas were found off southern Chile - scientists are waiting for DNA results to confirm the breakthrough. Marine ecologist Robert Pitman, who was part of the team that spotted the whales in the icy waters off Cape Horn at the
- [Legal action threat against Jamaican dolphin facility plans](https://marineconnection.org/legal-action-threat-against-jamaican-dolphin-facility-plans/) - Marine Connection continues to support calls to the government of Jamaica to withdraw their approval for the construction of a new captive dolphin facility near Puerto Seco beach after a permit was reportedly granted to the owners of another facility on the island Dolphin Cove, Ocho Rios. We are deeply concerned that due process was
- [Latest on Russian whales held in sea pens](https://marineconnection.org/latest-on-russian-whales-held-in-sea-pens/) - A final decision has yet to be made over the fate of the captive whales held in what is known as Russia's 'Sea Prison'. Deputy Prime of Russia Minister Alexei Gordeyev recently held a meeting to determine the future of the killer whales and beluga whales being held in Srednyaya Bay. There are reports that
- [Join the campaign to phase-out cetacean captivity in Europe](https://marineconnection.org/join-the-campaign-to-phase-out-cetacean-captivity-in-europe/) - Dolphinaria-Free Europe coalition of which Marine Connection is a member, call upon all European Citizens, Euro-Parliamentarians and Member State governments to help phase out the keeping of dolphins and whales in captivity within Europe. With European Elections due to take place in May of this year, DFE is urging MEPs to include this in their
- [More Hector's dolphin deaths](https://marineconnection.org/more-hectors-dolphin-deaths/) - At least four Hector's dolphins were caught in two separate incidents involving commercial fishing trawlers off the east coast of the South Island, New Zealand in December 2018. Although the dolphin deaths were reported by the skippers this latest news is still very concerning as without observers or cameras on most of these boats, the
- [Spread a little love this Valentine's day](https://marineconnection.org/spread-a-little-love-this-valentines-day/) - Question What could be better than finding that perfect gift for someone special in your life on the day of romance? Answer When the purchase of that gift donates toward the work of your favourite charity- at no extra cost to you! Whether it's a personalised present, fragrance & flowers or chocolate treats,
- [Japan to set its own whaling quotas](https://marineconnection.org/japan-to-set-its-own-whaling-quotas/) - Japan is set to enforce its own quotas when they recommence commercial whaling in July of this year following the country's official exit from the International Whaling Commission (IWC) on June 30. Annual caps will be set for different areas of the sea, whale species and on the types of ships used for whaling - the
- [Remembering the 'Thames Whale'](https://marineconnection.org/remembering-the-thames-whale/) - January 19, 2019 marks 13 years since a female northern bottlenose whale swam up the River Thames into London (UK) creating a sensation. The photograph here of the whale swimming past the Houses of Parliament was taken by Marine Connection's Liz Sandeman and captured the interest of the media being used extensively worldwide to accompany reports
- [No official IWC withdrawal as yet from Japan](https://marineconnection.org/no-official-iwc-withdrawal-as-yet-from-japan/) - Japan was recently condemned for its decision to withdraw from the International Whaling Commission (IWC) and resume commercial whaling, however, the IWC is still awaiting official notification from the country. The IWC says it currently does not know how long this will take, as formal notification has to be given from the US due to the fact
- [First Right whale calf spotted in nearly two years!](https://marineconnection.org/first-right-whale-calf-spotted-in-nearly-two-years/) - Marine Connection welcomes the news that a North Atlantic right whale calf has been spotted off Jacksonville, northeastern Florida. This species migrate to the waters off the Florida and Georgia coasts from Canada and Maine each winter for a calving season but last year, no right whales were seen off the Atlantic coast of Florida
- [Third Māui dolphin found dead this year](https://marineconnection.org/third-maui-dolphin-found-dead-this-year/) - News has reached us regarding the death of a Māui dolphin on the North Island, New Zealand - making this the third Māui’s dolphin death to be reported to the Department of Conservation this year. Māui’s dolphins are critically endangered and only found on the west coast of the North Island. The total population is fewer
- [Shop and help dolphins & whales today!](https://marineconnection.org/shop-and-help-dolphins-whales-today/) - Marine Connection has teamed up with online fundraising platform Give as you Live to provide supporters with an easy way to raise funds to support the charity’s work whilst carrying out every day online shopping. Every time you buy from online retailers, (over 4,200 leading shops and brands) they’ll make a donation to Marine Connection
- [Marine Connection 2019 calendar](https://marineconnection.org/marine-connection-2019-calendar/) - All dolphin and whale enthusiasts will love this! Get close up to some of the amazing whale and dolphin species that we are fortunate to share our planet with. Enjoy a stunning new image each month - with plenty of space to write your days to remember and notes. This is the perfect addition to any
- [VICTORY! Moray Firth dolphins saved from oil transfer at sea threat](https://marineconnection.org/victory-moray-firth-dolphins-saved-from-oil-transfer-at-sea-threat/) - Marine Connection welcomes the news that Port of Cromarty Firth will not be resubmitting its application for ship-to-ship transfers of oil in the Moray Firth, Scotland. Carried out at sea, ship-to-ship transfers happen when a smaller vessel supplies a larger tanker with oil while moored alongside and although common in the global oil trade, oil
- [Dolphin facility planned for Budapest](https://marineconnection.org/dolphin-facility-planned-for-budapest/) - As members of Dolphinaria-Free Europe (DFE), Marine Connection is supporting a letter sent by the coalition to Hungary's Minister of Agriculture to stop the owner of the Tropicarium Aquarium in Budapest from being allowed to display dolphins at their existing facility. Being a European Union (EU) Member State, under EC Regulation 338/97, which implements CITES (Convention
- [Dolphins found in King Salmon farm nets in New Zealand](https://marineconnection.org/dolphins-found-in-king-salmon-farm-nets-in-new-zealand/) - Two dolphins have been found dead in New Zealand King Salmon nets in the Marlborough Sounds - both animals were found in predator nets which surround the salmon farms. Company divers were undertaking routine checks of the nets when they found the dolphins at two separate salmon farms in Pelorus Sound, one carcass was identified
- [IUCN Red List Update](https://marineconnection.org/iucn-red-list-update/) - An update of The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species recently released by the International Union for Conservation of Nature has demonstrated that species like the fin whale have benefited from collaborative conservation action to protect them. This whale species has moved from Endangered to Vulnerable, and its recovery follows international bans on commercial whaling
- [Plans for the largest marine reserve in Antarctica blocked](https://marineconnection.org/largest-marine-reserve-in-antarctica-blocked/) - A proposal to create the world’s largest marine sanctuary in the Antarctic Ocean has been blocked by three nations - China, Russia, and Norway. At a recent meeting in Tasmania, Australia held by the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources(CCAMLR), the global body responsible for the protection of Antarctic waters, 22 members
- [Turning the tide on plastic pollution](https://marineconnection.org/turning-the-tide-on-plastic-pollution/) - The UK Government has set out its plan to ban the distribution and sale of plastic straws, drinks stirrers and cotton buds to protect the rivers and seas. It is estimated that 4.7 billion plastic straws, 316 million plastic stirrers and 1.8 billion plastic-stemmed cotton buds are used each year in England and the government
- [Where is Martinha?](https://marineconnection.org/where-is-martinha/) - A coalition of marine mammal advocates and experts are demanding answers from the Portuguese government and an NGO on the whereabouts of a rescued female common dolphin, Martinha, who has spent the past decade confined to a tiny backyard concrete ‘swimming pool’. Martinha stranded on the coast of Portugal in September 2007 - her rescuers
- [Increase in whale deaths in Mumbai Metropolitan Region](https://marineconnection.org/increase-in-whale-deaths-in-mumbai-metropolitan-region/) - According to government data, marine species deaths along coastal areas in the Mumbai Metropolitan are increasing, causing concern - from 12 cases in 2015 to 34 cases in the first nine months of 2018. In 2016 and 2017, 21 and 27 deaths were reported respectively, however prior to 2015, there was no protocol to record
- [UK Government backs Antarctic nature reserve plans](https://marineconnection.org/uk-government-backs-antarctic-nature-reserve-plans/) - Marine Connection welcomes the news that the UK Government supports the establishment of a huge wildlife reservation in Antarctica - approx. five times the size of Germany. Covering around 1.8m kilometres, it would be the largest nature reserve of its type and have a positive effect for not only marine wildlife including blue whales, orcas,
- [Speaking up for Honey - but who is listening?](https://marineconnection.org/speaking-up-for-honey-but-who-is-listening/) - Further to our recent letter (supported by 40 international organisations), to the owners and various authorities regarding the situation surrounding the dolphin known as Honey at Inubosaki Marine Park Aquarium in Japan, we have now received a response from the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), with whom we also raised our concerns. Although
- [Petition to rehear case against Miami Seaquarium denied by US court](https://marineconnection.org/petition-to-rehear-case-against-miami-seaquarium-denied-by-us-court/) - Sighting violations under the Endangered Species Act, a petition to rehear the case brought against the Miami Seaquarium has been denied by the Court in Miami. The three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit filed their decision on Tuesday 9 October. The Seaquarium therefore has successfully convinced the court that
- [Parques Reunidos CEO Fernando Eiroa resigns](https://marineconnection.org/parques-reunidos-ceo-fernando-eiroa-resigns/) - Parques Reunidos, owners of Miami Seaquarium and 59 other parks located in 14 countries across Europe, the Middle East and the Americas, are today looking for a new CEO following the resignation of Fernando Eiroa who has been with the company since 2004. After eight years running Palace Entertainment, the US subsidiary of Parques, he
- [Possible change for lobster fishing industry](https://marineconnection.org/possible-change-for-lobster-fishing-industry/) - The Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Team will soon meet in Providence, U.S.A. to discuss what efforts are necessary to stop the deaths of right whales. A string of recent whale deaths has been linked to entanglement in fishing gear and those entanglement deaths have already pushed regulators towards requiring any roped lobster gear to
- [Marine parks along China’s silk road](https://marineconnection.org/marine-parks-along-chinas-silk-road/) - Haichang Ocean Park Holdings who engage in the development, construction and operation of marine parks plan to build facilities along China’s new silk road trade initiative - the Belt and Road initiative. The company is already in discussion with several mainland state-owned infrastructure builders to develop 3-4 marine park attractions in countries such as Bangladesh
- [SeaWorld Abu Dhabi - due 2022](https://marineconnection.org/seaworld-abu-dhabi-due-2022/) - The partnership between Middle East developer Miral and SeaWorld is on schedule to open SeaWorld Abu Dhabi in 2022 - prior to the opening of the facility, the partnership will open the SeaWorld Research, Rescue, Rehabilitation and Return Centre on the Yas Island site. The new park’s design shows no plans to display killer whales
- [Aerial survey reveals diversity in Marine National Monument](https://marineconnection.org/aerial-survey-reveals-diversity-in-marine-national-monument/) - Researchers aboard a small, four-seat aeroplane, were amazed recently by the sheer abundance and diversity of marine wildlife in their aerial survey of the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument - the only marine national monument on the East Coast, about 150 miles south-east of Cape Cod. More than 600 animals were sighted in just
- [China: Caging the Ocean’s Wild](https://marineconnection.org/china-caging-the-oceans-wild/) - Marine Connection is pleased to report that Al Jazeera’s 101 East programme investigation about China’s multi-billion-dollar aquarium industry, exposing the cruelty and suffering of some of the world’s most majestic marine mammals and how they are being hunted for entertainment is now available to view. With China home to more than 60 marine theme parks and
- [Pro whaling nations block whale sanctuary](https://marineconnection.org/pro-whaling-nations-block-whale-sanctuary/) - Pro-whaling nations at the current International Whaling Commission (IWC) meeting in Brazil once again blocked an effort to establish a South Atlantic Whale Sanctuary - Japan, backed by commercial whaling states Iceland and Norway, as well as Russia and other countries voted against the proposal, causing it to fall short of the two-thirds majority needed to
- [Lonely or simply intelligent?](https://marineconnection.org/lonely-or-simply-intelligent/) - A dolphin nicknamed Kylie which has lived mainly alone in the Firth of Clyde for over 15 years, seems to like the company of harbour porpoises and research now suggests the dolphin appears to have learnt to produce sounds similar to those of the porpoises. Common dolphins have peak frequencies below 100 kilohertz (KHz) while
- [Dolphin released from captivity spotted with calf](https://marineconnection.org/dolphin-released-from-captivity-spotted-with-calf/) - Researchers from Jeju, Ewha Womans and Kyoto universities have confirmed Boksoon, an Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin released back into the wild off South Korea’s largest island of Jeju three years ago has given birth. Sighted in waters off Seogwipo, 20-year-old Boksoon was among four other dolphins caught and sold illegally to dolphinariums in South Korea between
- [Good news for dolphins?](https://marineconnection.org/good-news-for-dolphins/) - Underwater noise is a big concern when installing offshore wind farms but recently, the Carbon Trust Offshore Wind Accelerator and offshore wind engineering company Fistuca announced they have completed the first test of a new quieter system for installing offshore wind farm foundations in an effort to minimise disturbance for marine life. Typically installation of
- [Alaskan hunters believed whale hunt was legal](https://marineconnection.org/alaskan-hunters-believed-whale-hunt-was-legal/) - A federal investigative report released to The Associated Press through a public records request, shows that indigenous hunters in Alaska initially believed they were legally hunting a beluga whale when they unlawfully killed a protected gray whale with harpoons and guns after the marine mammal strayed into the Kuskokwim River last year. Federal law prohibits
- [TUI and Virgin won't drop sales of tickets to SeaWorld](https://marineconnection.org/tui-and-virgin-wont-drop-sales-of-tickets-to-seaworld/) - BothTui and Virgin have announced that they won’t be following Thomas Cook’s lead in dropping sales of tickets to the SeaWorld theme parks. Virgin say to stop tickets sales completely wouldn't address the needs of cetaceans currently in captivity, and would minimise their ability to exert positive influence. Virgin sell tickets/excursions to various facilities with
- [Beaked whale strandings around the Irish coast](https://marineconnection.org/beaked-whale-strandings-around-the-irish-coast/) - Over a 5-day period in early August, five strandings of Cuvier's beaked whales were documented in various areas around Ireland. Three were found at the same time in separate locations (Donegal and Mayo) with two further standings in County Galway and County Sligo. To have five of this species strand along the coastline in under
- [Investigation shows multiple causes for sperm whale strandings](https://marineconnection.org/investigation-shows-multiple-causes-for-sperm-whale-strandings/) - An international investigation into the stranding of 30 sperm whales in the southern North Sea in 2016 including seven in the Netherlands, has concluded that the event most probably occurred due to a combination of several complex environmental factors as no evidence of man-made trauma was found. The whales had not been the victim of
- [Petition to ban captive dolphins on St Maarten](https://marineconnection.org/petition-to-ban-captive-dolphins-on-st-maarten/) - Since 2006 Marine Connection has supported campaigns by colleagues at Dolphin Defenders St Maarten to stop the establishment of a captive dolphin facility on the island. To date we have helped stop 3 applications being authorised, however, there are rumours that the island is again being targetted for a new dolphin swim programme. Marine Connection is
- [Atlantis Sanya in China to undergo welfare audit - Thomas Cook confirms](https://marineconnection.org/atlantis-sanya-in-china-to-undergo-welfare-audit-thomas-cook-confirms/) - Atlantis Sanya, the facility which opened recently on Hainan Island, keeps both beluga whales and dolphins for display/entertainment purposes, the whales were transferred from Russia and the dolphins sourced from Taiji, Japan. Thomas Cook is the first major holiday company to announce they are to stop selling excursions to their customers which keep orcas in
- [Wild orcas captured in Russia](https://marineconnection.org/wild-orcas-captured-in-russia/) - It has been reported that two wild orcas have been captured in Russian waters at Nicholay Bay in the Khabarovsk region. Colleagues from Ocean Friends who are monitoring the captures say the whales were taken onboard the vessel 'Yuri Shvetsov' and placed in containers (the blue tarpaulin lining can be seen here in the image).
- [48th anniversary of the Penn Cove orca captures](https://marineconnection.org/48th-anniversary-of-the-penn-cove-orca-captures/) - Just north of Seattle, Washington on August 8 1970, several young southern resident killer whales were captured in the shallow waters of Penn Cove, Whidbey Island - among the calves captured is lone survivor female Lolita which to date between performing tricks for paying tourists, continues to languish in her tank at Miami Seaquarium.
- [Help save Southern Resident Orcas](https://marineconnection.org/help-save-southern-resident-orcas/) - On July 24, one of the Southern Resident Orca population in the Pacific North West gave birth to a female calf. This was very welcome news, but sadly the calf died shortly after birth and her mother, known as Tahlequah or J35, is today still carrying around her calf's body. For some time now experts
- [Thomas Cook will stop ticket sales to Miami Seaquarium](https://marineconnection.org/thomas-cook-will-stop-ticket-sales-to-miami-seaquarium/) - Further to our report yesterday (30 July), Marine Connection has been in contact with Thomas Cook with regards to Miami Seaquarium. Currently, Thomas Cook offers this as an excursion to customers visiting Miami via a third party website. Having questioned them on this, we have now received confirmation from the company that, in line with
- [World Association of Zoos and Aquariums ask Thomas Cook to review decision](https://marineconnection.org/world-association-of-zoos-and-aquariums-ask-thomas-cook-to-review-decision/) - Further to the recent announcement by Thomas Cook that from next Summer they will cease selling tickets to facilities which display orca, the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) has released a statement urging Thomas Cook to review their decision. WAZA highlights efforts made by Loro Parque and SeaWorld to protect marine species globally,
- [Thomas Cook to stop selling tickets to SeaWorld and Loro Parque](https://marineconnection.org/thomas-cook-to-stop-selling-tickets-to-seaworld-and-loro-parque/) - Marine Connection is delighted to report that Britain’s biggest tour operator Thomas Cook is axing their trips to SeaWorld in the USA and Loro Parque in Tenerife from summer 2019 after SeaWorld failed initial checks and issues raised with Loro Parque. The decision was taken following customer feedback showed that more than 90% said it was
- [Superpod6 - another great event](https://marineconnection.org/superpod6-another-great-event/) - Since the first gathering in 2011, Superpod6 (SP6) kicked off on July 19th on San Juan Island, United States. This year's theme was The Blackfish Effect - marking the five-year-anniversary of Blackfish the documentary opening at cinemas/theatres in New York, Los Angeles and Hollywood. Hosted once again by Voice of the Orcas, the event was
- [Positive news for Hawaii's false killer whales](https://marineconnection.org/positive-news-for-hawaiis-false-killer-whales/) - Coastal areas surrounding the Hawaiian Islands have now been designated as a protected, critical habitat for the small, unique population of false killer whales living in those waters. The National Marine Fisheries Service published its long-awaited rule recently on the designation of a critical habitat for the whales, which is crucial for the “recovery” of
- [New cool packaging - a step towards stopping plastic pollution](https://marineconnection.org/new-cool-packaging-a-step-towards-stopping-plastic-pollution/) - As an organisation that cares deeply about the impact that plastic is having on dolphins, whales, porpoises and their ocean home, Marine Connection is delighted to announce that all our merchandise now comes in eco-friendly paper postage bags - another step towards stopping plastic pollution in the oceans. Browse our collection of tees, tops and
- [Keeping a distance from belugas off Cape Breton](https://marineconnection.org/keeping-a-distance-from-belugas-off-cape-breton/) - Ottawa, the capital city of Canada is to impose new regulations that will require boat users to keep a distance from whales, dolphins and porpoises. The announcement comes as people continue to flock to an area off Ingonish Beach to see two beluga whales, (one believed to be juvenile and another younger animal), which have
- [Update on Arabian Sea humpback whale](https://marineconnection.org/update-on-arabian-sea-humpback-whale/) - India's National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) recently included four new diverse species in its recovery programme for critically endangered species which includes the Arabian Sea humpback whale. Threats to this population are entanglement in fishing gear, ship strikes and seismic explorations. Historical whaling records and years of research conducted off the coast of Oman revealed
- [Ivory Bill could protect narwhals](https://marineconnection.org/ivory-bill-could-protect-narwhals/) - A consultation on extending the scope of the Ivory Bill 2017-19 to protect narwhals has been announced by the UK government. This would also protect hippos and walruses impacted by the ivory trade. The Ivory Bill currently before Parliament includes a power for Ministers to extend the proposed ban on selling items made from elephant
- [New marine wildlife reserve](https://marineconnection.org/new-marine-wildlife-reserve/) - Marine Connection welcomed the recent announcement from the Spanish Government that they are to create a new reserve for the migration of whales and dolphins in the Mediterranean Sea. The protected area will cover 46,385 square kilometres (17,909 square miles) between the Balearic Islands and the mainland and will hopefully prohibit companies searching for fossil
- [Dolphin calf born at Kolmarden Zoo, Sweden](https://marineconnection.org/dolphin-calf-born-at-kolmarden-zoo-sweden/) - On June 9, a female calf was born to Ariel at Kolmarden Zoo and has been named Alana. The calf's father, David was born in Mundomar in 2004 and transferred to Selwo Marina in 2008, then to Kolmarden in 2016. In January this year at Kolmarden, a male calf was born to Fenah, which was
- [Illegal sale of four finless porpoises](https://marineconnection.org/illegal-sale-of-four-finless-porpoises/) - On June 22nd 2018, two men were tried in the Xicheng Court, Beijing charged with illegally acquiring and selling four wild finless porpoises in early 2107. The protected marine mammals were purchased for 100 yuan each (approx £12 UK sterling) from a fishmonger in Shandong. They were subsequently resold to Beijing seafood company owner Duanou, for
- [Swimming with wild dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/swimming-with-wild-dolphins/) - Visitors to the Welsh coastline (UK) this summer are being reminded not to disturb the marine wildlife after reports of swimmers approaching the wild bottlenose dolphins which frequent the Cardigan Bay area. Over 200 bottlenose dolphins are known to this area in any year, with numbers increasing throughout the summer and reaching a peak in
- [New dolphin protection zone in Gibraltar](https://marineconnection.org/new-dolphin-protection-zone-in-gibraltar/) - In 2016, Marine Connection contacted the Minister for the Environment in Gibraltar following reports that many dolphins in British Gibraltar Territorial Waters (BGTW) were being injured due to a fishing practice often used by sports fishermen to catch large pelagic fish such blue-fin tuna known as “popping’. Popping involves casting lines and lures with hooks into
- [Legislation introduced to protect North Atlantic right whales](https://marineconnection.org/legislation-introduced-to-protect-north-atlantic-right-whales/) - U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson recently unveiled legislation aimed at protecting the highly endangered North Atlantic right whale. The SAVE Right Whales Act of 2018 (S. 3038) establishes a new grant program to fund collaborative projects between states, nongovernmental organizations and members of the fishing and shipping industries to reduce the impacts of human activities on
- [Orca likely to have been killed by ship strike](https://marineconnection.org/orca-likely-to-have-been-killed-by-ship-strike/) - In December 2017 a dead female orca was brought up in the net of a deep-water trawl vessel, 30 nautical miles northeast of Banks Peninsula on the South Island of New Zealand. A Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) observer on board the vessel took images and tissue samples before the orca was returned to the
- [Holiday fun - not for captive cetaceans](https://marineconnection.org/holiday-fun-not-for-captive-cetaceans/) - It's the start of the annual summer holiday season with many looking forward to that well-deserved break and, for some, this will include a visit to marine parks. Although the tide is turning, with people speaking out against seeing dolphins and whales in captivity, there are still thousands that purchase tickets to watch these shows
- [Concern raised over washed-up dolphin carcasses](https://marineconnection.org/concern-raised-over-washed-up-dolphin-carcasses/) - The carcasses of 13 bottlenose dolphins have washed up on Delaware shores (USA) in the last few weeks, spanning the length of the state from the Delaware Bay to Cape Henlopen and Rehoboth Beach. Most of the marine mammals are too decomposed to pinpoint a cause of death. Annually, Delaware normally sees approx 10 dead
- [Bill SB 1017 - reducing bycatch](https://marineconnection.org/bill-sb-1017-reducing-bycatch/) - Marine Connection welcomes the news that the California Senate recently passed animal welfare bill, SB 1017. The legislation which passed in a unanimous 33-0 vote now moves to the Assembly. If passed again, it will move on to the governor’s office to be signed into a law that would transition California away from the use
- [Latest on plans for ship to ship oil transfers in Moray/Cromarty Firth](https://marineconnection.org/latest-on-plans-for-ship-to-ship-oil-transfers-in-moray-cromarty-firth/) - As our supporters will be aware, Marine Connection has been voicing our concern over plans by the Cromarty Firth Port Authority application to carry out ship-to-ship oil transfers at sea as we believe this needlessly puts local wildlife, including the resident population of bottlenose dolphins, under threat. After thousands joined to speak out against these
- [Blue whale spotted off Eilat coast](https://marineconnection.org/blue-whale-spotted-off-eilat-coast/) - Visitors to Eilat, Israel on the northern tip of the Red Sea were treated to a rare sight recently when a 65-foot blue whale was spotted close to shore. A team of marine biologists working on an unrelated project in the Gulf of Eilat took underwater photos and video footage of the massive marine mammal
- [Northern resident killer whale numbers double](https://marineconnection.org/northern-resident-killer-whale-numbers-double/) - The latest numbers for the northern resident killer whales (NRKW) now stands at 309, the population has more than doubled since the 1970s when they totalled 120 whales. These latest figures include 5 confirmed whale deaths and 10 calves born. Three percent birth-rate in the 2017 study shows a healthy rate and it’s encouraging to
- [No change for Lolita at Miami Seaquarium](https://marineconnection.org/no-change-for-lolita-at-miami-seaquarium/) - Whilst representatives of the Lummi Nation have travelled thousands of miles across the USA during their Totem Pole Journey for Lolita, Miami Seaquarium continues to be deaf to pleas to retire her. In the throes of finalising their multi-million dollar renovation to the facility, Miami Seaquarium has not included any renovations to Lolita’s tank - which
- [Risso’s dolphin found on British beach](https://marineconnection.org/rissos-dolphin-found-on-british-beach/) - The Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP) retrieved the juvenile dolphin carcass from a beach near Great Yarmouth for a post-mortem - this species is usually found hunting squid and octopus around the western Scottish and Irish coastlines. Risso’s dolphins usual global range stretches from Australia to the Arabian Ocean and the northeast Atlantic where they
- [Dolphin attacks on porpoises](https://marineconnection.org/dolphin-attacks-on-porpoises/) - Over the past few weeks, there have been several attacks from bottlenose dolphins on harbour porpoises around the Moray Firth, Scotland. Sadly, many of the small marine mammals sustain several injuries, including broken ribs from their 'bigger cousins'. The latest attack was captured on camera by photographer Alister Kemp near Chanonry Point at Fortrose and
- [One day ... the tanks will be empty](https://marineconnection.org/one-day-the-tanks-will-be-empty/) - On May 12th dozens of protests took place around the world in countries including the UK, USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, South Africa, Argentina, Mexico, the Caribbean, Japan and China - as part of the sixth Empty The Tanks initiative; an annual event and public awareness campaign against the keeping of dolphins and whales in captivity.
- ['No-Go' zone to protect orcas](https://marineconnection.org/no-go-zone-to-protect-orcas/) - The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is asking anglers and other boaters to avoid an area along the west side of San Juan Island in an effort to help protect the southern resident killer whales whose population declined from 98 whales in 1995 to 76 in December of 2017. In addition to
- [Protecting the Port River dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/protecting-the-port-river-dolphins/) - Despite efforts to try and protect the Port River dolphins, Australia, some boat users are still going at full speed within the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary. Impacts from speeding boats have been the cause of young dolphin deaths within the sanctuary in recent months and out of seven calves born in the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary this
- [UK set to ban single-use plastics](https://marineconnection.org/uk-set-to-ban-single-use-plastics/) - The Government announced this news at the start of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Summit and Prime Minister Theresa May is now calling on all other Commonwealth countries to join in the fight against plastic pollution. The single-use plastics ban will include plastic straws and cotton swabs and could be enforced as early as next
- [Wild dolphin interactions - at what cost to the animals?](https://marineconnection.org/wild-dolphin-interactions-at-what-cost-to-the-animals/) - Tourist spots around the globe offer people a chance to swim with whales and dolphins in their natural environment, but just what impact do these activities have on the marine mammals concerned? Cetacean biologist Maddalena Fumagalli investigated these issues in a study on wild spinner dolphins in the southern Egyptian Red Sea in the lagoons
- [Three orcas killed in western St Vincent, Caribbean](https://marineconnection.org/three-orcas-killed-in-western-st-vincent-caribbean/) - On Sunday, 15 April, three orcas were killed by fishermen off Barrouallie, a town in western St Vincent. The Barrouallie crew have defended their action, stating they have broken no local law because the government is yet to pass a law banning the killing of these marine mammals, however, if a ban were in place
- [Icelandic company resumes whaling](https://marineconnection.org/icelandic-company-resumes-whaling/) - Icelandic whale hunting company Hvalur hf. is going to resume whale hunting after a two-year brek. The company has been permitted to hunt 161 fin whales in addition to using a portion of last year’s quota which was unused. The hunt will start around June 10 and the whales will be used for 'research' and
- [Japanese fleet departs to hunt whales for 'research'](https://marineconnection.org/japanese-fleet-departs-to-hunt-whales-for-research/) - On 5 April, a fleet of vessels left the port of Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture in Japan to undertake what the government describes as 'research' whaling. The ships will search an area of the Pacific within a 90km radius of the port with the aim of capturing minke whales, in order to analyze stomach contents and
- [Orcas hunt Cuvier's beaked whale](https://marineconnection.org/orcas-hunt-cuviers-beaked-whale/) - For the first time in history, orcas have been filmed hunting and killing an elusive whale species in Australian waters. The event took place off the coast of Western Australia's Bremer Bay on April 1st. The pod of killer whales swam up to 50km an hour to converge on the lone Cuvier’s beaked whale which
- [Conservation Filmmaking - making a difference to the natural world](https://marineconnection.org/conservation-filmmaking-making-a-difference-to-the-natural-world/) - Marine Connection is supporting 'The Final Breach' a 12-min short documentary to further raise awareness about the Southern Resident Killer Whale population and the struggles they currently face. Produced and directed by Jess Webster a zoology graduate from UWE Bristol, filming will be carried out over the month of May around Vancouver Island and San
- [Dolphins kept in 'human wave pool' for months](https://marineconnection.org/dolphins-kept-in-human-wave-pool-for-months/) - It was recently revealed that in November 2017, eight dolphins were transferred from Selwo Marina, Malaga to other Spanish facilities whilst work was carried out to their tank. Two were transferred to Madrid Zoo, and six were transported to Aquopolis, Tarragona. As there was not sufficient space for the animals in the existing dolphin tank
- [Moray Firth dolphin numbers 'stable'](https://marineconnection.org/moray-firth-dolphin-numbers-stable/) - Marine Connection warmly welcomes the news that the number of bottlenose dolphins in the Moray Firth special area of conservation (SAC) off the coast of Scotland remains 'stable'. The report by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) shows around 200 dolphins call the coastal North Sea home, with more than half frequently using the Moray Firth. The research,
- [Humpback completes return journey to Masirah Island](https://marineconnection.org/humpback-completes-return-journey-to-masirah-island/) - Luban, the first Arabian Sea humpback whale to have been documented crossing from Oman to India, has now completed a return journey and is once again swimming in the waters around Masirah Island where she was originally tagged in November 2017. The female humpback was first photographed and identified in the Gulf of Masirah in
- [New orca calf spotted in waters near Bremer Canyon, Western Australia](https://marineconnection.org/new-orca-calf-spotted-in-waters-near-bremer-canyon-western-australia/) - Curtin University researcher Rebecca Wellard spotted the calf while conducting research surveys in the Bremer Sub-Basin with Cetacean Research WA and Killer Whales Australia. CASA licenced drone pilot Pierce Cullen captured the drone footage of DC with the new calf’s mother, Kali who has been catalogued by Project ORCA since 2016. The last time a
- [Crab fishery loses sustainable designation](https://marineconnection.org/crab-fishery-loses-sustainable-designation/) - The Gulf of St Lawrence snow crab fishery has lost its international designation as environmentally sustainable, following the deaths of more than 12 North Atlantic right whales - two of the deaths in the area were attributable to snow crab gear. The Marine Stewardship Council announced the suspension after an expedited audit of the fishery,
- [Armenia dolphins headed for Iran facility](https://marineconnection.org/armenia-dolphins-headed-for-iran-facility/) - Following the closure today of the dolphin facility at the Best Western Paradise Hotel in Dilijan, The Republic of Armenia Ministry of Nature Protection has granted the Russian owners a six-month re-export license to transfer the two dolphins to a facility in Iran. Under the original CITES permit it stated the dolphins should be returned
- [Standing together for Lolita](https://marineconnection.org/standing-together-for-lolita/) - The public awareness campaign to release Lolita (aka Tokitae) from the Miami Seaquarium gathered momentum recently. The Lummi Nation tribe of Washington state, (whose traditional territory in the Salish Sea also served as Lolita’s native waters) held a press conference in Miami, Florida to advocate for the release of the female killer whale, following 48
- [The Whale Bowl - making waves at Superpod 6](https://marineconnection.org/the-whale-bowl-making-waves-at-superpod-6/) - When Marine Connection was approached in early 2017 by Emily George regarding a documentary she was directing with fellow film students from Greenwich University in London about Lolita, the orca at Miami Seaquarium, we did not hesitate to give our support. ‘The Whale Bowl’ was released in June 2017 and was met with great reviews.
- [No right whale calves spotted this season](https://marineconnection.org/no-right-whale-calves-spotted-this-season/) - The dwindling North Atlantic right whale population is on track to finish its breeding season this year without any new births - an unprecedented and alarming sign for this critically endangered whale species. The whales migrate seasonally between New England and Florida, calving off Florida and Georgia from November to February. Over the years, mothers
- [Searching for solutions to right whale entanglements](https://marineconnection.org/searching-for-solutions-to-right-whale-entanglements/) - Following the deaths of 17 endangered North Atlantic right whales during their annual migration north along the coasts of the USA and Canada last summer, efforts to find ways of reducing whale entanglement in fishing gear continue. NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), the US Department of Commerce scientific agency, say evidence suggests this small
- [99% of Russian marine mammal exports are to China](https://marineconnection.org/99-of-russian-marine-mammal-exports-are-to-china/) - In 2016 revenue to Russia from exports of marine mammals including whales, dolphins, sea lions and walruses to China amounted to $US6.8m - a 32% increase on the previous year. China continues to be one of the main markets for marine mammals from Russia - in the first three months of 2017 alone, the value
- [Armenian hotel pool dolphin facility ordered to close](https://marineconnection.org/armenia-hotel-pool-dolphin-facility-ordered-to-close/) - Over the past 4 months, Marine Connection has been highlighting the plight of two dolphins held in a basement swimming pool at the Best Western Paradise Hotel in Dilijan, Armenia. In our ongoing campaign against this facility and working alongside colleagues on the ground, we can now announce that the dolphinarium has been ordered to
- [Vancouver Aquarium - latest](https://marineconnection.org/vancouver-aquarium-latest/) - Vancouver's park board did not have the authority to ban cetaceans at the city's aquarium, a British Columbia judge has ruled. This recent decision follows the Vancouver Aquarium's announcement that it will end the practice of displaying cetaceans in captivity. In May 2017, the Vancouver park board voted to phase out cetacean captivity at the
- [Monkey Mia dolphins suffer shark attacks](https://marineconnection.org/monkey-mia-dolphins-suffer-shark-attacks/) - There has apparently been a spate of brutal shark attacks on some of the dolphins at Monkey Mia, Australia - the area is known for close interaction between the dolphins and tourists, first attracting global attention in the 1970s. Up to five habituated dolphins visit Monkey Mia daily and are hand-fed fish from the beach,
- [SeaWorld to be independently audited by Thomas Cook](https://marineconnection.org/seaworld-to-be-independently-audited-by-thomas-cook/) - Thomas Cook is to carry out an independent audit of SeaWorld following its decision to stop promoting the attraction online. Asked about the situation during a media conference call following its Q1 results, Thomas Cook Group chief executive Peter Fankhauser said: “A year ago we introduced a really robust animal welfare policy, taking the ABTA
- [Beirut dolphins back in Egypt](https://marineconnection.org/beirut-dolphins-back-in-egypt/) - In October last year, we reported about a temporary dolphin show in Beirut which had been established in a circus tent, owned and operated by Cirque du Liban. The dolphins had been flown in 'on loan' for shows and swim programmes, from a captive facility in Egypt. Marine Connection sent a joint statement of concern
- [Latest update on Bayworld Oceanarium, South Africa](https://marineconnection.org/latest-update-on-bayworld-oceanarium-south-africa/) - For some years, the Mandela Bay Development Agency (MBDA) has been considering revamp options for Bayworld Oceanarium (formally known as the Port Elizabeth Museum Complex) and deciding whether or not to include captive dolphins in the plans. The Oceanarium currently houses turtles, fur seals and African Blackfooted Penguins. Latest reports are that MBDA now wants
- [Irrawaddy dolphins protection zone to be extended](https://marineconnection.org/irrawaddy-dolphins-protection-zone-to-be-extended/) - The Fisheries Department is planning to extend the dolphin protection area which is currently 72 kilometres wide, extending from Mingun to Kyauk Muang in the Sagaing Region, as designated in 2005. It will now be extended by another 118 kilometres from Hti Kyauk in Katha District of the Sagaing Region to Shwegu in Bhamo District
- [Great news - right whales back in Cape Cod Bay](https://marineconnection.org/great-news-right-whales-back-in-cape-cod-bay/) - Researchers say they are encouraged by sightings of North Atlantic right whales in Cape Cod Bay. During an aerial surveillance recently, 14 of the rare whales were sighted within a few hours which marks a strong start to the season. Last year 251 individuals were identified in the bay between December and May which gives
- [Blue Planet II helps prompt responsible travel](https://marineconnection.org/blue-planet-ii-helps-prompt-responsible-travel/) - The popularity of Blue Planet II will lead to a rise in eco-holidays, according to the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) who has predicted that the BCC marine wildlife series will encourage more tourists to visit new destinations as they become aware of the negative impact of overcrowding. One in four holidaymakers are planning
- [England's resident dolphin pod](https://marineconnection.org/englands-resident-dolphin-pod/) - Dolphins around the South West coast of England have been sighted over the years, with many thought to be migrating along the coast from the Irish Sea to the Bay of Biscay throughout the year. However, identification studies have revealed that around 98 individual animals regularly frequent the area, with a distinct group of 28
- [Humpback whale migration time in Hawaiian waters](https://marineconnection.org/humpback-whale-migration-time-in-hawaiian-waters/) - It's that time of year again when majestic humpback whales can be seen close to shore in Hawaiian waters as they migrate from their feeding grounds off Alaska to breed, calve and nurse their young the warm waters of the islands. Although some whales have already arrived in the area, numbers tend to peak between
- [Alarming bycatch figures of common dolphins revealed](https://marineconnection.org/alarming-bycatch-figures-of-common-dolphins-revealed/) - Over the past 12 months, 44 common dolphins were caught in fishing nets in the Bay of Plenty, a large bight in the northern coast of New Zealand's North Island. The bycatch was a result of purse seine fishing and although it's not clear what the target species was, the dominant purse seine fishery in
- [Paradise 2, Armenia  Update](https://marineconnection.org/paradise-2-armenia-update/) - Since we first highlighted the two dolphins being held in a pool in Armenia, we have continued to address this with the Best Western Paradise Hotel and the response so far has been to attempt to distance themselves. The hotel claims that in no way are they affiliated with those operating Dolphin Therapy Dilijan, stating they
- [Plastic pollution - what a waste!](https://marineconnection.org/plastic-pollution-what-a-waste/) - Around eight million tons of our plastic waste enter the oceans from land each year and is one of biggest threats to dolphins and whales. In the final episode of Blue Planet II this Sunday (BBC One December 10th @ 8.00pm GMT), viewers will see a sperm whale try to eat a blue plastic bucket
- [Lolita - is retirement in sight?](https://marineconnection.org/lolita-is-retirement-in-sight/) - Marine Connection has received reports from our colleagues at Orca Network on the recent court case addressing Lolita’s continued welfare, living conditions and plans for her future. We are delighted that the judge upheld the request that the case is remanded for trial solely on Miami Seaquarium's compliance with the Endangered Species Act. As Lolita
- [Update on Moroccan dolphinarium plans](https://marineconnection.org/update-on-moroccan-dolphinarium-plans/) - Further to the initial report on our campaign opposing a dolphinarium being established in Morocco at Anza near Agadir, Marine Connection has submitted our letter of concern. Supported by several national and international NGOs, this has now been delivered to Mr Akhannouch (Minister of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, Rural Development and Water & Forests) and to Mr
- [Investigation into illegal trade in Black Sea bottlenose dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/investigation-into-illegal-trade-in-black-sea-bottlenose-dolphins/) - It has been revealed that for the past six months authorities in Russia, including the FSB, have been monitoring the action of a group of residents in the Kuban district, thought to be involved in the illegal capture/trade of Black Sea dolphins. During the course of the searches, 3 bottlenose dolphins were found in a
- [CITES to investigate Japanese 'research' whaling](https://marineconnection.org/cites-to-investigate-japanese-research-whaling/) - A recommendation has been made by the Standing Committee of CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora), that an investigation is undertaken on potential violations of the CITES treaty by Japan in relation to their whaling 'research' programme. Japan's continued claims of scientific 'research' as justification for continued whale
- [Underwater World's 'missing' dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/underwater-worlds-missing-dolphins/) - Marine Connection and others involved in monitoring the trade in dolphins and whales across borders and between countries worldwide have long complained about, and exposed, the lack of transparency in the marine park industry. It has recently come to light that following the closure of Underwater World Singapore (UWS) in June 2016, the company claimed
- [No 'paradise' for Best Western swimming pool dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/no-paradise-for-best-western-swimming-pool-dolphins/) - Marine Connection was recently alerted to a new dolphin facility at the Best Western Hotel in Dilijan, Armenia. After further investigations, we discovered that two dolphins had been exported from Russia and being kept in the hotel swimming pool. The permit provided by CITES states the female dolphins are from Morskaya Zvezda Dolphinarium in Sochi
- [St Lucia - proposed dolphin park update](https://marineconnection.org/st-lucia-proposed-dolphin-park-update/) - Having recently returned from a visit to Dolphin Discovery in Mexico, the company who wish to develop a dolphin facility on St Lucia, Prime Minister, Allen Chastanet commented to reporters that concerns raised by those in opposition to the proposed dolphin park on the island have in some cases misrepresented the facts about the development.
- [Plastics found in almost 10% of cetaceans in Irish waters](https://marineconnection.org/plastics-found-in-almost-10-of-cetaceans-in-irish-waters/) - Almost ten percent of whales, dolphins, and porpoises examined as part of a new Irish study were found to have plastics in their digestive tracts. The study published in Environmental Pollution found that 8.5 percent (45 individuals) of Irish cetaceans tested had marine debris in their stomachs and intestines. Deep-diving offshore species such as True’s
- [Hope for New Zealand's endangered dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/hope-for-new-zealands-endangered-dolphins/) - At last, there is hope for this species as New Zealand's Labour Party under the new Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern plus NZ First and the NZ Green Party all back a ban on commercial fishing activities within the areas frequented by Maui and Hector's dolphins. They are also considering other measures to ensure their protection,
- [Circus tent housing dolphin show in Beirut](https://marineconnection.org/circus-tent-housing-dolphin-show-in-beirut/) - Marine Connection has been alerted to a temporary dolphin show/swim programme in Beirut operated by Cirque Du Liban, displaying dolphins currently on loan from Dolphina in Egypt. This has been met with much local opposition and we have approached the authorities in Lebanon on behalf of ourselves, Animal Welfare Institute and Whale and Dolphin Conservation,
- [Attacks on porpoises by bottlenose dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/attacks-on-porpoises-by-bottlenose-dolphins/) - Harbour porpoises found dead on the Scottish coast are likely to have been the victim of attacks by bottlenose dolphins. Many of these small marine mammals have sustained injuries including broken ribs, shoulder blades, spines and also brain haemorrhages caused by being “punched” and tossed around by the dolphins. At this time of the year,
- [Thank you everyone!](https://marineconnection.org/thank-you-everyone/) - A very big thank you to everyone who submitted an entry for the Marine Connection/Nalu bead design competition. We received many outstanding designs and have chosen a version of the entry submitted by Edd Hewett as the overall winner. Congratulations to Edd whose design will be available to purchase in support of Marine Connection's campaigns
- [Morocco plans first dolphinarium](https://marineconnection.org/morocco-plans-first-dolphinarium/) - Marine Connection is working alongside colleagues at Surfrider Foundation in Morocco on a vital campaign to stop the first-ever dolphinarium being established in Anza near Agadir. Agadir Dolfin World is funded by Russian businessmen who plan to bring several marine mammals (4 dolphins, 1 beluga and 1 seal) into Morocco from an existing Russian facility
- [Humpback whale visits St Cyrus, Scotland](https://marineconnection.org/humpback-whale-visits-st-cyrus-scotland/) - When a humpback whale appeared off the east coast of Scotland recently, photographers and wildlife enthusiasts flocked to the area in the hope of catching a glimpse of the majestic marine mammal. Watchers lined the cliff top at St Cyrus, delighted as shouts of 'humpback' went up when the whale was spotted close to shore.
- [Parques Reunidos partner with Discovery Communications](https://marineconnection.org/parques-reunidos-partner-with-discovery-communications/) - Parques Reunidos, the parent company of Miami Seaquarium have partnered with Discovery Communications to develop themed entertainment centres in North America, Western Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The integrated indoor entertainment centres will include interactive family entertainment facilities, themed around topics such as nature and the oceans but with no live animals and state-of-the-art rides. Marine Connection
- [Update on Whale Protection Bill 1287](https://marineconnection.org/update-on-whale-protection-bill-1287/) - We welcome the news that Bill 1287, also known as the Whale Protection & Crab Gear Retrieval Act has passed and now involved agencies are working on implementation. US North Coast Senator Mike McGuire first introduced the bill in 2016 with the aim to help stop whale entanglements up and down the California coast. The
- [First-of-its-kind deep sea experience](https://marineconnection.org/first-of-its-kind-deep-sea-experience/) - Next month, National Geographic Encounter in New York’s Times Square is set to welcome the public into a first-of-its-kind deep sea experience, Ocean Odyssey. It promises to be a ground-breaking underwater adventure across the Pacific Ocean bringing visitors face-to-face with 20ft sharks, a 50ft humpback whale, Humboldt squids and much more but without a drop
- [Whale drags fishing gear more than 1,700km](https://marineconnection.org/whale-drags-fishing-gear-more-than-1700km/) - A humpback whale, which died on a NSW mid-north coast beach, Australia had dragged fishing gear/ ropes more than 1,700 kilometres. The whale was initially freed from its entanglement but beached itself a few hours later. The gear the whale was caught-up in has been identified as coming from Tasmania and possibly tangled for at
- [Haichang looking to develop Ocean Parks in Asia and Africa](https://marineconnection.org/haichang-looking-to-develop-ocean-parks-in-asia-and-africa/) - China’s largest marine park operator, Haichang Ocean Parks Holdings, has been in discussion with several mainland state-owned infrastructure builders, to develop three to four ocean parks along China’s new silk road in countries like Bangladesh and Madagascar. Haichang has several ocean theme parks in China that exhibit beluga whales and dolphins. Their 3-billion-yuan Polar Ocean
- [Abu Dhabi SeaWorld to be indoor theme park](https://marineconnection.org/abu-dhabi-seaworld-to-be-indoor-theme-park/) - The theme park on Yas Island will be an indoor attraction so that it can attract visitors year-round. The first SeaWorld park developed without orcas, it will integrate up-close animal experiences, possibly dolphin swim programmes. This new facility is being located indoors to allow it to operate 12 months of the year. This means that
- [Baby boom in Sarasota Bay area](https://marineconnection.org/baby-boom-in-sarasota-bay-area/) - A record number of dolphin babies have been born this year in the Sarasota Bay area. During the 2017 calving season, 19 calves have been documented and these calves joined five concurrent generations of long-term resident dolphins in the Sarasota Bay area year-round. Calving season peaks during late spring and summer and boaters have been
- [Disturbance to cetaceans in Scottish waters](https://marineconnection.org/disturbance-to-cetaceans-in-scottish-waters/) - Scottish Government-led Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime Scotland (PAW Scotland) is urging boat and marine craft operators to respect Scotland’s marine wildlife after reports of operators getting too close to dolphins, orcas and even humpback whales. Areas currently being investigated include Chanonry Point in the Moray Firth, Aberdeen Harbour, Broughty Ferry in the Firth
- [Changfeng Ocean World belugas destined for Iceland](https://marineconnection.org/changfeng-ocean-world-belugas-destined-for-iceland/) - The two belugas currently held at Changfeng Ocean World in Shanghai, China are to be moved to a sanctuary in the Westman Islands, Iceland. UK based Merlin Entertainments acquired the Chinese facility in 2012. Attempts had been made previously to source a location off the coast of Russia, however no suitable location could be found
- [A free gift to you for caring](https://marineconnection.org/a-free-gift-to-you-for-caring/) - We know many of you dedicate your time to stand up or step out at rallies around the world for whales and dolphins and we think those campaigning feet deserve a little treat in return. If you spend over £15 on any of our merchandise this week as a thanks for your purchase you will
- [Bead design competition update](https://marineconnection.org/bead-design-competition-update/) - Following the launch of our 'Design A Bead' for Marine Connection competition in association with Nalu Beads on 21 June, we have been delighted with the response, receiving some truly creative and beautiful entries to depict dolphins, whales and the work we do here at the charity - thank you to each and every one
- [SeaWorld refuse document disclosure](https://marineconnection.org/seaworld-refuse-document-disclosure/) - SeaWorld recently told a California federal court that investors in a lawsuit are attempting to mislead the court by objecting to a confidentiality order, saying the theme park company's confidential documents are protected and have no bearing on the investors' bid for class certification. SeaWorld Entertainment stands accused of failing to tell shareholders that the
- [Blue whales threatened by seabed mining](https://marineconnection.org/blue-whales-threatened-by-seabed-mining/) - An important habitat for New Zealand’s only known population of critically endangered blue whale is now at risk from destructive seabed mining after an Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) ruling. Trans Tasman Resources Limited applied to undertake iron sand seabed mining between South Taranaki and Golden Bay which involves sucking up 8000 tonnes of seabed sediment
- [Remembering those taken from Penn Cove](https://marineconnection.org/remembering-those-taken-from-penn-cove/) - Today, August 8th marks the 47th anniversary of the capture of seven members of the Southern Resident orca population including Lolita, in Penn Cove, Washington State, USA. During the 1960s/70s, almost 40 orcas were taken from the wild for the captivity industry, today Lolita is the one lone survivor. She has endured almost half a
- [France upholds cetacean breeding ban](https://marineconnection.org/france-upholds-cetacean-breeding-ban/) - On May 3 this year legislation was signed by French Environment Minister Segolene Royal relating to keeping of marine mammals in captivity in the France. This included a ban on breeding of dolphins and whales in marine parks which was immediately challenged by the captivity industry. The industry requested that the high court rule against
- [Mexico City to end marine mammal captivity](https://marineconnection.org/mexico-city-to-end-marine-mammal-captivity/) - Marine Connection welcomes the news that Mexico City Congress has passed a bill under the Protection of Animals law prohibiting the commercial exploitation and use of marine mammals, including dolphins and whales, in activities with humans; including training for and performing in shows, swim programmes or therapy. This means that existing facilities within Mexico City
- [Orca calf Kyara dies at SeaWorld](https://marineconnection.org/orca-calf-kyara-dies-at-seaworld/) - The last orca whale born in captivity under SeaWorld's former orca-breeding program has died at the San Antonio park. 3-month-old Kyara died Monday, July 24 after her health continued to decline over the weekend, she was showing possible signs of pneumonia. Infections have been responsible for 60 percent of the deaths of orcas at SeaWorld’s
- [International shipping supports science to protect orcas](https://marineconnection.org/international-shipping-supports-science-to-protect-orcas/) - Ships passing through a sensitive area off British Columbia’s coast, have agreed to slow down in an effort to protect the critically endangered southern resident killer whale population. One of the major threats to their survival is the amount of noise pollution from marine activity, which makes it difficult for the orcas to communicate and hunt
- [Minke whale dies in fishing gear](https://marineconnection.org/minke-whale-dies-in-fishing-gear/) - A female minke whale died after becoming entangled in fishing gear off Scotland's west coast. Her tail fluke is believed to have become tangled in a creel rope off the Isle of Mull. The minke, who was healthy at the time of her death, was one of a number of whales seen around the island
- [Ocean Film Festival returns to the UK](https://marineconnection.org/ocean-film-festival-returns-to-the-uk/) - The Ocean Film Festival World Tour returns to the UK this autumn for the fourth year running, bringing an evening of inspirational and jaw dropping ocean films from independent film makers from across the globe, to almost 30 venues across Britain and Northern Ireland in September and October. The 2017 film programme sees a brand-new
- [Dolphins follow WA fishing trawlers for food](https://marineconnection.org/dolphins-follow-wa-fishing-trawlers-for-food/) - The incidental capture of wildlife in fishing gear presents a global conservation challenge. As a baseline to inform assessments of the impact of bycatch on bottlenose dolphins interacting with the Pilbara trawl fishery in Western Australia, scientist conducted an aerial survey to estimate dolphin abundance across the fishery. New research shows that the offshore dolphin
- [Ireland’s whale-watching season boom](https://marineconnection.org/irelands-whale-watching-season-boom/) - Colleagues from the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group have reported exceptional sightings of minke whales and humpback whales off west Cork recently. A pod of humpbacks that normally frequents west Kerry have been sighted focusing around west Cork, while Boomerang, the humpback that has returned regularly to Irish waters since 2001, has been spotted this
- [Necropsies completed on right whales](https://marineconnection.org/necropsies-completed-on-right-whales/) - There has been a lot of interest recently with regards to what caused the deaths of six North Atlantic right whales recently found floating lifeless in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. With approx. 525 North Atlantic right whales left and now losing six is particularly concerning because birth figures are on the decline - only
- [Concerns over dolphin deaths on Black Sea beaches](https://marineconnection.org/concerns-over-dolphin-deaths-on-black-sea-beaches/) - The number of dead dolphins washed up from Sochi to Anapa since March of this year has now reached 167. The highest number of animals washed ashore was May – 84 dolphins with 16 individuals being discovered this month. The cause of deaths are currently being investigated but signs show some of the dolphins had
- [Chinese white dolphin population dwindling](https://marineconnection.org/chinese-white-dolphin-population-dwindling/) - According to the latest official statistics, the number of Chinese white dolphins in Hong Kong waters has been decreasing. The dolphins rely on the city’s waters as part of their home range but the species population is declining at an annual rate of 2.5 per cent. The construction of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge has had
- [Get creative - be a winner for dolphins and whales](https://marineconnection.org/get-creative-be-a-winner-for-dolphins-and-whales/) - Marine Connection and Nalu have launched an exciting competition, giving you the opportunity of designing a unique glass bead to support the charity's campaigning work to protect dolphins and whales worldwide. The creator of the winning design will see their bead produced in hand-made Murano glass - the most beautiful glass in the world, renowned
- [Inside the Tanks - discussing cetacean captivity](https://marineconnection.org/inside-the-tanks-discussing-cetacean-captivity/) - Inside the Tanks is a new short film produced and presented by Jonny Meah whose idea was to produce something showing both sides of the issues behind keeping dolphins and whales in captivity. This thought provoking documentary goes behind the scenes of Marineland, Antibes, France - speaking to not only those fighting to end captivity
- [The Whale Bowl - speaking out for Lolita](https://marineconnection.org/the-whale-bowl-speaking-out-for-lolita/) - ‘The Whale Bowl’ is a short documentary made by film students from Greenwich University in London, UK to help raise awareness about the plight of Lolita, the orca currently held at Miami Seaquarium. Directed by Emily George and narrated by actress and author Heidi Mumford-Yeo, the score has been composed by Stafano Fasce, a student
- [Isle of Man signs up to ASCOBANS](https://marineconnection.org/isle-of-man-signs-up-to-ascobans/) - The Isle of Man has signed up to the Agreement on the Conservation of Small Cetaceans of the Baltic, North East Atlantic, Irish and North Seas (ASCOBANS). Located in the Irish Sea between England and Ireland, the island joins a network of 10 European countries working together to protect dolphins, whales and porpoises. Manx waters
- ['Big Watch at the Broch' , Scotland](https://marineconnection.org/big-watch-at-the-broch-scotland/) - This weekend, Marine Connection attended the 'Big Watch at the Broch', Burghead, Moray which was organised to raise awareness of the stunning marine wildlife that calls the north-east of Scotland home. Wildlife enthusiasts flocked to the prime viewing area at the visitor centre area, hoping for a glimpse of the wonderful marine life that frequent
- [US officials say Lolita’s tank size may be illegal](https://marineconnection.org/us-officials-say-lolitas-tank-size-may-be-illegal/) - For some time those involved in attempts to retire Lolita/Tokitae have claimed that the tank in which she is being held does not meet the minimum legal standards for keeping orca and is in contravention of the US Animal Welfare Act. However, both Miami Seaquarium and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) -
- [World Oceans Day 2017 : Celebrate, Protect, Conserve](https://marineconnection.org/world-oceans-day-2017-celebrate-protect-conserve/) - Today on World Oceans Day we celebrate our oceans and all the wonders they contain. As we celebrate we must also consider what each and every one of us can do now to protect cetaceans and their ocean home. Man continues to burden marinelife with toxins and plastics, they are taken into captivity for entertainment
- [Gabon pledges marine protected areas](https://marineconnection.org/gabon-pledges-marine-protected-areas/) - On June 5 at the United Oceans Conference in New York City, Gabon announced that it will now be creating one of Africa’s largest ever marine protected areas. The new network, consisting of nine new national marine parks and 11 new aquatic reserves, means that combined with the country’s three existing marine zones, some 53,000
- [Shark nets removed as whales return](https://marineconnection.org/shark-nets-removed-as-whales-return/) - In the coastal waters of northern Australia, the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is in the process of removing five of the state government's trial shark nets two weeks before the the six-month trial is due to end, in order to protect thousands of migrating humpback whales, many with newborn calves. The decision was
- [Banning super trawlers in Tasmanian waters](https://marineconnection.org/banning-super-trawlers-in-tasmanian-waters/) - In November 2016, super trawler the Geelong Star, left Australian waters after 18 months - through its fishing operations over that period of time it had killed at least nine dolphins, seven albatross and a number of seals, and was subjected to fishing bans when it first started operating in Australian waters. This vessel developed
- [Orca watch week 2017](https://marineconnection.org/orca-watch-week-2017/) - Marine Connection is once again participating in the annual Orca Watch week at Duncansby Head, located on the most north-easterly part of the Scottish mainland. At this time of year the whales move between Iceland and Scotland, and NGOs, scientists plus dedicated whale watchers all flock to the headland, the main watch site throughout the week, in
- [Salmon enhancement project to help hungry orcas](https://marineconnection.org/salmon-enhancement-project-to-help-hungry-orcas/) - A unique salmon enhancement project on the southern tip of Vancouver Island has been launched to help increase supplies of large adult Chinook salmon in the Juan De Fuca Strait to help feed hungry southern resident killer whales. More than 200,000 healthy Chinook salmon smolts are currently being held in a temporary enclosure in the
- [Update on Masra Al Arab project, Dubai](https://marineconnection.org/update-on-masra-al-arab-project-dubai/) - Following our previous report on plans released by global investment group Dubai Holding which showed killer whales being displayed as part of their $1.7billion Masra Al Arab project, we contacted the company directly about this. They have stated that the artwork/model plans shown were for representational purposes only, however they would not elaborate further. We
- [New Dubai marine park to possibly display orca](https://marineconnection.org/new-dubai-marine-park-to-possibly-display-orca/) - Global investment company Dubai Holding has launched 'Marsa Al Arab', a large project spreading over an area of 4 million sq ft, comprising of two islands on both sides of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah - one of the world's most luxurious hotels. The project will have one island for entertainment and family tourism and will
- [UK researchers help protect Peru's river dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/uk-researchers-help-protect-perus-river-dolphins/) - River dolphins (and Amazonian manatees) in Peru will benefit from new protection after researchers from the university's Penryn Campus in Cornwall worked with Peruvian officials for more than two years to develop a new protection law. Neighbouring countries like Brazil, Colombia and Ecuador already had legislation in place but Peru did not. The dolphins face
- [Is St Lucia having second thoughts about dolphin park?](https://marineconnection.org/is-st-lucia-having-second-thoughts-about-dolphin-park/) - Following Prime Minister Allen Chastanet’s decision to cut funding to one of the leading Trusts' on St Lucia who are supporting the campaign to stop the development of a dolphin facility at Pigeon Island, and his lack of response to our previous letters, Marine Connection has again written to the St Lucian High Commissioner in
- [Draft amendments for cetaceans at VA released](https://marineconnection.org/draft-amendments-for-cetaceans-at-va-released/) - The Vancouver Park Board has released its report outlining draft amendments to bylaws governing importation and display of live cetaceans at the Vancouver Aquarium in Stanley Park, Canada. The proposed amendments would allow current cetaceans Chester,(false killer whale) Helen (Pacific white-sided dolphin) and Daisy (harbour porpoise) to stay but future dolphins, whales, or porpoises can
- [Gray whale calf dies in fishing gear](https://marineconnection.org/gray-whale-calf-dies-in-fishing-gear/) - Examination of an entangled male gray whale on May 4 revealed it was a calf that died after being caught in crab pot lines, near Long Beach Peninsula in Washington State. The necropsy showed the whale’s age/size was consistent with when mothers with calves migrate north from their winter breeding and calving grounds in Baja
- [France bans breeding of captive dolphins and whales](https://marineconnection.org/france-bans-breeding-of-captive-dolphins-and-whales/) - On Wednesday 3 May the French Environment Minister, Segolene Royal signed legislation bringing into effect conditions which include larger pool size and depth and stopping the use of chlorinated water, which facilities in France will have 3 years to adhere to if they wish to continue operating. We were delighted to receive notification that the
- [Despite closure ruling Bahamas dolphin facility plans to expand](https://marineconnection.org/despite-closure-ruling-bahamas-dolphin-facility-plans-to-expand/) - Marine Connection has for some years supported a campaign by colleagues at ReEarth in the Bahamas to close down a dolphin facility at Blackbeard’s Cay. In 2014 a lawsuit was filed and it was found that the company operating Blackbeard’s Cay, Blue Illusions, had not followed proper building permit procedures and furthermore had imported the
- [Humpback whales on track to Port Stephens, Australia](https://marineconnection.org/humpback-whales-on-track-to-port-stephens-australia/) - In the past five years, the number of humpback whales making the journey north from feeding grounds in Antarctica to the warmer tropical waters of the Pacific to breed has risen from 18,000 to more than 22,000. The whales travel past New Zealand, through the Tasman Sea, towards Sydney and then continue north towards Port
- [What is killing Atlantic humpback whales?](https://marineconnection.org/what-is-killing-atlantic-humpback-whales/) - NOAA Fisheries have officially announced an “unusual mortality event” for humpback whales from Maine to North Carolina, USA. The death toll leading to the declaration has risen to 41 whales from January 1 2016, to date and the “event” will now trigger a focused, expert investigation into the cause of the unusually high death count.
- [Trap fishing gear closure extended to protect whales](https://marineconnection.org/trap-fishing-gear-closure-extended-to-protect-whales/) - As a result of the ongoing presence of endangered right whales feeding in Cape Cod Bay, the Division of Marine Fisheries has announced that most of Cape Cod Bay will remain closed to the setting of recreational and commercial traps and pots for an additional week, through until May 7. Right whales are common in
- [Where are Darwin’s dolphins heading to?](https://marineconnection.org/where-are-darwins-dolphins-heading-to/) - Darwin Harbour’s humpback dolphins may be abandoning the area for other waters, according to a new study. For approx three years, researchers for have been monitoring dolphin numbers and their movement patterns in Darwin Harbour, Shoal Bay and Bynoe Harbour. Results showed there was an average of almost 150 dolphins in the three areas over
- [Steps to cut underwater noise in the Salish Sea](https://marineconnection.org/steps-to-cut-underwater-noise-in-the-salish-sea/) - An international group of marine scientists including five from British Columbia wants the Canadian government to take steps to cut underwater noise in the Salish Sea off the southern coast of B.C. The scientists say increased noise from shipping and other industries threatens the critically endangered southern resident killer whale population which, at the beginning
- [Boycott Mexican Shrimp to save Vaquita Porpoise](https://marineconnection.org/boycott-mexican-shrimp-to-save-vaquita-porpoise/) - Marine Connection has joined a coalition led by US based Animal Welfare Institute campaigning for a public boycott of all shrimp caught in Mexico. It is hoped that this action will pressurise Mexican government officials to save the endangered vaquita, the world's smallest porpoise, from imminent extinction. Only about 30 individual vaquita are left in Mexico's
- [Cook Islands bans commercial fishing to protect whales](https://marineconnection.org/cook-islands-bans-commercial-fishing-to-protect-whales/) - The Cook Islands has placed a ban on commercial fishing within 50 nautical miles of the nation to reduce the interaction between commercial fishing and humpback whales. In 2001 the Cook Islands declared its entire Exclusive Economic Zone a Marine Park - an area of almost 2 million square kilometres and Minister of Environment, Hon
- [Lolita - lonely but not alone](https://marineconnection.org/lolita-lonely-but-not-alone/) - This weekend in the UK and USA advocates for Lolita the killer whale marched with one common aim - to ask Miami Seaquarium to retire her from performing, something she been forced to do at the facility for almost half a century since her capture from the wild in the waters of Puget Sound, Washington
- [UK travel company drops several dolphin facilities](https://marineconnection.org/uk-travel-company-drops-several-dolphin-shows/) - Marine Connection welcomes the news that Britain's second largest travel company Thomas Cook is dropping tours to several dolphinariums because the facilities do not meet its welfare standards. The facilities no longer promoted by the travel agent include Ocean World in the Dominican Republic and Sealanya in Turkey, which offer dolphin swimming experiences and shows. It
- [Kiwi scientists record rare whale sounds](https://marineconnection.org/kiwi-scientists-record-rare-whale-sounds/) - More than half the world's whale and dolphin species are found in New Zealand waters, yet very little is known about their migration paths, their behaviour and where they go. In summer 2016 scientists deployed seven acoustic moorings in Cook Strait that recorded the sounds of marine mammals for six months until they were retrieved
- [Call of the baby beluga](https://marineconnection.org/call-of-the-baby-beluga/) - A must see - this new film by Marine Connection colleagues Suzanne Chisholm and Mike Parfitt who created 'Saving Luna' the story of a young solitary orca, 'Call of the baby beluga' follows the story of a young beluga calf who was one day washed up on the shores of the St Lawrence River near
- [How much ghost fishing gear is out there?](https://marineconnection.org/how-much-ghost-fishing-gear-is-out-there/) - Ghost nets are commercial fishing nets which have been lost or abandoned by a fishing vessel and remain in the sea. Every year thousands of whales, dolphins and porpoise are killed by ghost fishing gear and this week, thanks to the quick thinking crew of a whale watching tour who were hoping to see some
- [More speak out against St Lucia dolphin park plans](https://marineconnection.org/more-speak-out-against-st-lucia-dolphin-park-plans/) - Following our previous post, Marine Connection has written to the Prime Minister of St Lucia expressing concern over plans by Dolphin Discovery to establish a dolphin park at Pigeon Island, St Lucia. The letter is supported by several international NGOs, scientists and cetacean advocates. We have sent a copy of our letter to His Excellency, Mr
- [Killer whales to be displayed in Wuxi, eastern China](https://marineconnection.org/killer-whales-to-be-displayed-in-wuxi-eastern-china/) - Wuxi Changqiao Ocean Kingdom will be the largest ocean park in the region upon completion in 2019. Covering 185,000-sq-m at a cost of approximately $435 million the facility plans to display marine mammals including killer whales, beluga whales and polar bears also over 1,000 species of fish. The new facility is being developed by Hangzhou Changqiao
- ["Sounders" are back around Puget Sound](https://marineconnection.org/sounders-are-back-around-puget-sound/) - Gray whale watching season has officially arrived around Puget Sound - the coastal area of the Pacific Northwest in the U.S. state of Washington. Referred to as "Sounders", approximately 12 gray whales visit these waters for about three months during spring with many having made regular visits to the Greater Puget Sound for over 20
- [Vancouver park board votes to ban keeping captive cetaceans at Vancouver Aquarium](https://marineconnection.org/vancouver-park-board-votes-to-ban-keeping-captive-cetaceans-at-vancouver-aquarium/) - Vancouver Park Board Commissioners voted unanimously yesterday to put an end to the display of cetaceans on its property at Stanley Park where the Vancouver Aquarium is located. Campaigners celebrated this decision, having over the years raised concerns over conditions at the facility. Over the past two years a harbour porpoise and two belugas on
- [Underwater robots map grey whale habitat](https://marineconnection.org/underwater-robots-map-grey-whale-habitat/) - Three underwater robots have spent weeks listening to grey whales off the west coast of Vancouver Island last month, so scientists can learn more about what the whales are encountering in northern waters as they migrate up the coast from their winter habitat off California, to their rich feeding grounds in the Bering Sea off
- [Magistrate recommends no fees in Seaquarium’s Lolita lawsuit](https://marineconnection.org/magistrate-recommends-no-fees-in-seaquariums-lolita-lawsuit/) - U.S. Magistrate Judge Alicia M. Otazo-Reyes recently recommended denying Miami Seaquarium's $2.56 million request to pay its counsel, Greenberg Traurig LLP, for defending a lawsuit over Lolita because it could jeopardise future lawsuits under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Peta had asked the court in July 2015 to force the Seaquarium to surrender Lolita for
- [Arle going – but Lolita remains, for now](https://marineconnection.org/arle-going-but-lolita-remains/) - The news about the closure of Arle Capital has raised many questions on social media as to what this means for the future of Lolita. For Parques Reunidos, the owners of the portfolio of companies which owns Miami Seaquarium, operated by their US subsidiary Palace Entertainments it is business as usual. Arle Capital still holds
- [Tonga to host "Whales in a Changing Ocean" Conference](https://marineconnection.org/tonga-to-host-whales-in-a-changing-ocean-conference/) - Tonga will be hosting the three-day event in early April to discuss whale conservation in the Pacific. It will bring together political decision-makers, scientists, community, industry and funders to investigate future legislative and research needs as well as designing innovative ways of cooperating and collaborating. The conference is a highlight of the two-year campaign to protect
- [New dolphin facility planned for St Lucia](https://marineconnection.org/new-dolphin-facility-planned-for-st-lucia/) - St Lucia appears to be the latest target for a proposed new captive dolphin facility. Dolphin Discovery, who already operate 10 dolphin parks in the Caribbean alone, wish to build at Pigeon Island, a 44-acre islet located in Gros Islet in the northern region of the island. The area was designated as a National Park
- [Virgin Holidays announce new stance on cetacean ‘attractions’](https://marineconnection.org/virgin-holidays-announce-new-stance-on-cetacean-attractions/) - Virgin Holidays has announced that it will not work with any new attractions or hotels that hold captive dolphins and whales for entertainment. However, this will not extend to existing attractions such as SeaWorld, Orlando but the new policy should mean that Virgin will not work with the new SeaWorld Abu Dhabi park - due
- [Right whale sightings dwindle this season](https://marineconnection.org/right-whale-sightings-dwindle-this-season/) - The winter migration for right whales may not yet be over however there are concerns over the amount of sightings off the Florida coast. Fewer whales have been seen than at any time since scientists/researchers commenced tracking with only four adult right whales and three calves having been sighted offshore. There has been a fairly
- [SeaWorld San Diego new show, no real change for their orcas](https://marineconnection.org/seaworld-san-diego-new-show-no-real-change-for-their-orcas/) - SeaWorld has announced that their San Diego park orca display is to be altered to a more 'natural' performance. To be known as 'Orca Encounter' the park also plans a virtual swim with whales exhibit. The Shamu stadium is to be transformed with natural rockwork, fake trees and man-made waterfalls. SeaWorld has said that trainers
- [Stricter regulations for French dolphinariums needed](https://marineconnection.org/stricter-regulations-for-french-dolphinariums-needed/) - The French Ministry of the Environment are currently considering a draft order to update current regulations, passed in 1981, to improve standards for dolphinaria in France. They are inviting public comment by 1 March, and we need your help. We, and colleagues in France, believe that the proposed regulation changes are not sufficiently stringent as
- [Plans for bodies of New Zealand whales](https://marineconnection.org/plans-for-bodies-of-new-zealand-whales/) - The New Zealand Department of Conservation has reconsidered its plans for disposal of the bodies of the pilot whales who died during the recent strandings on Farewell Spit. The whales will now be moved with a digger further up Farewell Spit, to the area of the nature reserve not open to the public. It has
- [Fantastic sightings of dolphins off Scottish coast](https://marineconnection.org/fantastic-sightings-of-dolphins-off-scottish-coast/) - In 2016 record numbers of dolphins were spotted off Scotland's west coast. Colleagues at the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust recorded 2,303 individual common dolphins, 42 bottlenose dolphins, and 94 Risso's dolphins in Hebridean waters. The figures were the highest ever recorded for all three species since surveys began in 1994, some days the team
- [Speak out for the dolphins in Taiji](https://marineconnection.org/speak-out-for-the-dolphins-in-taiji/) - Disturbed by recent reports that fishermen in Taiji had subjected a pod of bottlenose dolphins, including juveniles and calves with their mothers, to unimaginable stress over 5 days of the 'selection' process, and then removed 100 for sale into the captivity industry, Marine Connection has written to the office of the Japanese Prime Minister. We
- [South Korea steps up action on illegal whaling](https://marineconnection.org/south-korea-steps-up-action-on-illegal-whaling/) - Illegal whalers are using South Korea's eastern coastal regions to the Yellow Sea - name given to the northern part of the East China Sea - to hunt migrating whales. The dead marine mammals are hidden within the ships and then smuggled into various ports. To crack down on this, the coast guard is now
- [Will SeaWorld take their VR orca experience to Abu Dhabi park?](https://marineconnection.org/will-seaworld-take-their-vr-orca-experience-to-abu-dhabi-park/) - When SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment announced they were going to open their first branded park with no captive killer whales in Abu Dhabi, eyebrows were raised on how SeaWorld would still find a way to keep the whales an active part of the new park, without actually having live orca. In 2018 SeaWorld San Diego
- [Some positive news for Scotland’s Moray Firth dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/some-positive-news-for-scotlands-moray-firth-dolphins/) - Thank you to all who have supported the campaign so far to stop the ship-to-ship transfers of millions of tonnes of crude oil in the open waters of the Moray Firth, home to the world's most northerly resident bottlenose dolphin population. The licence applicants Cromarty Firth Port Authority (CFPA), had been advised to re-submit a revised
- [Update on ship-to-ship oil transfers at sea - Moray Firth, Scotland](https://marineconnection.org/update-on-ship-to-ship-oil-transfers-at-sea-moray-firth-scotland/) - Thank you to everyone who has supported the campaign so far to stop the transfers of millions of tonnes of crude oil in the open waters of the Moray Firth, home to a resident bottlenose dolphin population, harbour porpoises and other amazing marine life (most recently sightings of two humpback whales!). The application has been
- [Miami Seaquarium say no release for Lolita](https://marineconnection.org/miami-seaquarium-say-no-release-for-lolita/) - Miami Seaquarium has recently been quoted in the press stating that, despite public concern, it will not release the orca known as Lolita. In a statement, General Manager of the Seaquarium, Andrew Hertz said it would be "reckless and cruel" to move the healthy and thriving orca from what has been her home for the
- [Primary threats to Southern Resident killer whales](https://marineconnection.org/primary-threats-to-southern-resident-killer-whales/) - High levels of contaminants in Southern Resident killer whales (SRKW) are one of the primary threats to the whales, according to a recent National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) report. 'Exposure to a Mixture of Toxic Chemicals' discusses how persistent organic pollutants are affecting the whales and what next steps are needed to more fully
- [Positive day at the Scottish Parliament](https://marineconnection.org/positive-day-at-the-scottish-parliament/) - Marine Connection joined the gathering outside Scottish Parliament yesterday, ahead of First Minister's Question Time, to highlight concerns over plans to allow ship-to-ship oil transfers at sea in the Moray Firth area, an area extremely important to the resident wild population of bottlenose dolphins. Highland MSPs Kate Forbes and Gail Ross raised the matter inside
- [20 years ago this month, JJ the gray whale was rescued](https://marineconnection.org/20-years-ago-this-month-jj-the-gray-whale-was-rescued/) - Barely a week old, 20 years ago on January 11, 1997 a female gray whale was rescued after being discovered alone on the shores of Marina del Rey near Los Angeles. Nicknamed JJ, she was taken to SeaWorld, San Diego where she was immediately given emergency medical care/ tube fed and after being fed a
- [Plans for seismic tests rejected](https://marineconnection.org/plans-for-seismic-tests-rejected/) - President Obama recently denied six permit applications for oil and gas exploration from Florida to Delaware — including requests to use intrusive seismic blasting. The decision comes three weeks after Obama declared that 31 Atlantic canyons, including the Norfolk and Washington canyons off the coast of Virginia, would be indefinitely off-limits to drilling and mineral
- [Male orca found dead in B.C. waters](https://marineconnection.org/male-orca-found-dead-in-b-c-waters/) - We are very saddened to report that the body of an 18 year old male orca, known as J34, was recently found approximately 30 miles north of Vancouver which is indeed tragic news for the southern resident population. J34 was spotted alive as recently as December 7 - his mother J32 and brother, J38 are
- [Our festive message](https://marineconnection.org/our-festive-message/) - As 2016 draws to a close we take time to reflect back upon this year's campaigns. We are delighted that this year has seen several changes in legislation to protect cetaceans and the decision by SeaWorld to stop performing orca shows is of course welcomed, however their dolphins are not so fortunate and we
- [UK Government sets out next steps to ban microbeads](https://marineconnection.org/uk-government-sets-out-next-steps-to-ban-microbeads/) - A consultation to ban microbeads in cosmetics and personal care products was launched recently, aiming to change UK legislation by October 2017 and stop billions of tiny pieces of plastic ending up in our seas each year. Microbeads (small particles of plastic) are a common ingredient in many cosmetics and personal care products such as face scrubs
- [Positive news - no dolphin captures in Namibian waters](https://marineconnection.org/positive-news-no-dolphin-captures-in-namibian-waters/) - After many months of campaigning we were delighted to receive the news that Beijing Ruier Animal Breeding and Promoting Company, which had jointly applied for a license from the Namibian Government to capture free-ranging dolphins, seals and penguins for the aquarium trade in China, is no longer pursuing the office of Fisheries Minister, Bernard Esua
- [Omura's whale spotted off Australia](https://marineconnection.org/omuras-whale-spotted-off-australia/) - A rarely seen Omura's whale has been spotted on Australia's Great Barrier Reef, one of the few sightings globally of a species that scientists know little about. Only a handful of specimens have been found before, including in the Sea of Japan and the Solomon Sea. Discovered in 2003 by Japanese researchers, genetic data confirmed
- [Decision on Namibia’s wild dolphin captures will not be made until 2017](https://marineconnection.org/2017-deadline-for-decision-on-namibias-wild-dolphin-captures/) - Despite growing international concern over the Namibian Government's decision on whether or not to grant a permit to export live marine mammals to the Far East for commercial display, we have now been advised Minister of Fisheries, Bernhard Esau will now make his final decision next year but has not committed to providing a time-frame
- [500 protest against ship to ship oil transfer plans](https://marineconnection.org/500-protest-against-ship-to-ship-oil-transfer-plans/) - Windsor - Marine Connection's dolphin has been involved in campaigns since the 1980s and never misses an opportunity to turn up to speak out for cetaceans. Today he joined 500 people on the main beach at Nairn in the Moray Firth area of Scotland to support the campaign against plans by Cromarty Port Authority to
- [Rumoured dolphin capture vessel in African waters looks set to depart - but to where?](https://marineconnection.org/rumoured-dolphin-capture-vessel-in-african-waters-looks-set-to-depart-but-to-where/) - Ryazanovka, the rumored capture vessel brought in to transport marine life from Namibian waters is currently refuelling at Walvis Bay. Despite consistent requests to Namibia’s Fisheries Minister Hon Bernhard Esau on whether his management committee had or had not approved the permit to capture marine life, including dolphins and seals along the country's coastline it is
- [Oil and dolphins don't mix - action needed!](https://marineconnection.org/oil-and-dolphins-dont-mix-action-needed/) - Marine Connection hosted an open public meeting on Friday 2 December at the Nairn Community & Arts Centre Theatre in the Scottish Highlands. Colleagues from Cromarty Rising gave a presentation on the application made by the Cromarty Firth Port Authority for a licence to transfer crude and other oils ship to ship in the Cromarty/Moray
- [Everglades dolphins have high mercury contamination](https://marineconnection.org/everglades-dolphins-have-high-mercury-contamination/) - It has been discovered that bottlenose dolphins in the Florida Coastal Everglades have higher concentrations of mercury than any other populations in the world. Florida International University (FIU) scientists examined dolphins from the lower Florida Keys, Everglades National Park and Florida Bay and found the highest levels of mercury concentration ever recorded was from the
- [Potential export of wild dolphins from Africa to Asia](https://marineconnection.org/potential-export-of-wild-dolphins-from-africa-to-asia/) - We were notified recently that the Fisheries Management Committee of the Namibian Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) is currently reviewing an application by a Chinese businessman to capture and export marine life, including dolphins and seals, from Namibian waters for the Asian aquarium trade. Once the Fisheries Management Committee has reviewed this application,
- [Spanish park imports dolphins for new facility](https://marineconnection.org/spanish-park-imports-dolphins-for-new-facility/) - Despite huge opposition to the building of a new dolphinarium at Rancho Texas Park on Lanzarote, Canary Islands, 4 male bottlenose dolphins have recently been imported from Germany to stock the facility. Diego and Darwin were transported from Duisburg Zoo plus Noah and Kai from Nuremberg. The four male dolphins, all captive born, will form
- [Beluga whales taken from Russia to China for display](https://marineconnection.org/beluga-whales-taken-from-russia-to-china-for-display/) - Six beluga whales, rumoured to be 3 male and 3 female, have been moved from Vladivostok in Russia to the Shanhaiguan Happy Ocean World in the district of Qinhuangdao, China. The belugas were transported by road and quickly given clearance when arriving at the port of entry, Suifenhe. The growth of public demand for ocean
- [Dolphins transferred to Zoomarine, Portugal](https://marineconnection.org/dolphins-transferred-to-zoomarine-algarve/) - Marine Connection has received the news that 2 dolphins have recently been transferred to Zoomarine, Algarve. Both dolphins were born in Germany - the female Naomi, born in Nuremberg in 1998 and the male Arnie, born in 2000 in Heide Park, Solatu. It has been advised that Naomi will be placed into a breeding group,
- [Future survival of southern resident killer whales](https://marineconnection.org/future-survival-of-southern-resident-killer-whales/) - With the southern resident killer whale population consisting of around 80 animals, the death of each female is a lost opportunity to help increase their number. Colleague Ken Balcomb, senior scientist for the Centre for Whale Research said the recently deceased orca, known as J28, follows a trend of females dying either late in pregnancy
- [Public consultation on Dolphinaria and Zoos in the EU](https://marineconnection.org/public-consultation-on-dolphinaria-and-zoos-in-the-eu/) - Please participate in the Public Consultation as part of the REFIT evaluation of EU Zoos Directive and provide your opinions about the role of zoos in the European Union which includes dolphinaria. The EU Zoos Directive provides all EU countries with a baseline requirement which must be incorporated into national law and requires all zoos
- [Humpback sightings down around the Seychelles](https://marineconnection.org/humpback-sightings-down-around-the-seychelles/) - From July until October each year, humpback whales migrate to the warmer waters of the Seychelles archipelago from the Antarctic in order to mate and breed. However this year around Aldabra there was a decline in their sightings, with only nine whales being recorded and much later into the season than usual. Although the number
- [Another victim of fishing gear](https://marineconnection.org/another-victim-of-fishing-gear/) - A young female humpback whale found in the Port of Wilmington, Delaware last week is believed to have died because it was entangled in fishing gear. The gear was found tangled around the pectoral fins of the dead whale which also had a significant wound in its mouth resulting from the presence of fishing line/rope
- [Update on oil transfer threat to Moray Firth dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/update-on-oil-transfer-threat-to-moray-firth-dolphins/) - Following our previous news posting on 6 October regarding the campaign to stop the granting of a licence to the Cromarty Firth Port Authority (CFPA) which would allow ship to ship oil transfers from anchorage points off the Sutors of Cromarty in the Cromarty/Moray Firth, Marine Connection has joined with local pressure group Cromarty Rising
- [VICTORY!](https://marineconnection.org/victory/) - Good news! Following our call to action we would like to thank all who emailed/messaged Presentcard.fi asking them to stop selling vouchers to the dolphinarium in Kolmarden Zoo. The company has now confirmed that they have removed this from their offers and will not include it in the future. This is an example of
- [Kolmarden Zoo roller-coaster permit revoked](https://marineconnection.org/wildfire-stopped-in-its-tracks/) - Marine Connection is delighted to report that the Land & Environment Court in Sweden has revoked the planning permit for the Wildfire roller-coaster at Kolmarden Zoo. This decision was reached mainly due to concerns raised for the impact this would have on the dolphins within the facility, following initial announcement of the plans. The Court say
- [Captivity is NOT a gift!](https://marineconnection.org/captivity-is-not-a-gift/) - Presentcard.fi is a leading gift card service company operating in Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Norway. On their site customers can purchase gift certificates for several experiences - one sadly being a close interaction with the captive dolphins at Kolmarden Zoo in Sweden. Over 50 bottlenose dolphins have died at Kolmarden since 1969 and the dolphins
- [International Whaling Commission soon to  meet in Slovenia](https://marineconnection.org/international-whaling-commission-soon-to-meet-in-slovenia/) - 88 countries of the International Whaling Commission (IWC) will meet in Slovenia next week in the organisation's first summit since Japan controversially restarted its Antarctic whale hunt. Australia is about to launch a fresh diplomatic drive to expose Japan's claim to kill whales in the name of science - Environment Minister Josh Frydenberg will lead
- [Sri Lanka steps up to stop dolphin hunting](https://marineconnection.org/sri-lanka-steps-up-to-stop-dolphin-hunting/) - Sri Lanka's Minister of Fisheries, Mahinda Amaraweera has requested for the country's Navy and Coast Guard to take legal action against any fishermen who are caught hunting and killing dolphins or whales. It has been reported that several fishermen are involved in this practice in the vicinity of Mirissa Fishery Harbour where there is a
- [Oil transfer threat to world's most northerly resident bottlenose dolphin population](https://marineconnection.org/oil-threat-to-worlds-most-northerly-bottlenose-dolphin-population/) - Marine Connection continues to support a vital campaign to stop the planned transfer of up to nine million tonnes of crude oil a year between tankers in an area of sea at the mouth of the Cromarty Firth just into the larger Moray Firth, Scotland - home to a resident population of bottlenose dolphins. There
- [US film festival to screen Japanese pro-whaling documentary](https://marineconnection.org/us-film-festival-to-screen-japanese-pro-whaling-documentary/) - A documentary introducing the voices of Japanese people who support whaling and dolphin hunting will be screened on October 1 during the Glendale International Film Festival in California, running from September 28 to October 5. The 105-minute Japanese and English bilingual movie “Behind the Cove — The Quiet Japanese Speak Out!” is touted as a
- [Pesticide chemical detected in dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/pesticide-chemical-detected-in-dolphins/) - A chemical formerly used in pesticides and more recently in carpet-cleaning products has turned up in the blood of North America’s dolphins, pike and cormorants for the first time. They all tested positive for perfluorophosphinic acids, one class of a common industrial chemical group used for a variety of purposes, including non-stick cooking surfaces since
- [LUSH asks Marine Connection "Why do you do what you do?"](https://marineconnection.org/lush-asks-marine-connection-why-do-you-do-what-you-do/) - The friendly team from LUSH visited the Marine Connection office in the Moray Firth, Scotland on a sunny day in July to meet our founders, Margaux Dodds and Liz Sandeman. This short film about the work of Marine Connection was shot along the shore at Chanonry Point and the camera crew chose a great time
- [Rare whale found on UK beach](https://marineconnection.org/rare-whale-found-on-uk-beach/) - A rare northern bottlenose whale measuring more than five metres long washed up on a beach in Porthcawl, Wales (UK) recently. Usually found in small numbers off the Northern Isles and Western Isles of Scotland, the decomposed whale was found by walkers on Sker beach near Porthcawl. Thought to be a young animal it is the
- [Särkänniemi release statement on dolphin transfers to Attica Park, Greece](https://marineconnection.org/sarkanniemi-release-statement-on-dolphin-transfers-to-attica-park-greece/) - The dolphins from Särkänniemi dolphinarium in Finland have been moved to Attica Park, Greece. Greece currently has a ban in place on any performances of animals, even domestic pets. However, since the ban was put in place, Attica Park dolphinarium has been allowed to continue to operate and now the authorities has allowed the importation
- [Annulment sought of EC Certificate for Morgan the orca](https://marineconnection.org/annulment-sought-of-ec-certificate-for-morgan-the-orca/) - Amsterdam law firm Van Den Biesen Kloostra Advocaten representing the Free Morgan Foundation (FMF) recently presented the State Secretary of Economic Affairs (the Netherlands) with an application for annulment of the EC certificate of 27 July 2011 granted in respect of Morgan the orca. The application is based on new reports concerning Morgan’s welfare at Loro Parque in Tenerife,
- [Bali - let wild dolphins remain free](https://marineconnection.org/bali-let-wild-dolphins-remain-free/) - Marine Connection has concern over a recent suggestion in the media by Dewa Suardipa, Chairman of the Buleleng branch of the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association that ocean floating 'sea cages' should be constructed in offshore locations near Lovina, Bali to house captive dolphins. With great natural attractions including stunning beaches and coral reefs, tourists
- [First ‘Killer Whales of Eastern Australia’ catalogue released](https://marineconnection.org/first-killer-whales-of-eastern-australia-catalogue-released/) - The Killer Whales Australia (KWA) publication is the result of hundreds of hours of scrutinising 3,332 images from 139 sightings and analysis of data that has been collected over a 32 year period. East Australian killer whales are highly transient, making them an incredibly difficult species to study. One of the individual orcas catalogued is
- [Transient orcas and humpbacks clash](https://marineconnection.org/transient-orcas-and-humpbacks-clash/) - Whale watchers on-board different vessels caught a rare encounter recently – a clash between transient orcas and humpback whales. The orca were spotted taking on two adult humpbacks and a calf in the Salish Sea, and although there were a lot of tail fluke slaps, there were no actual attacks - when more humpback whales
- [Concerns over injuries to Gibraltar dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/concerns-over-injuries-to-gibraltar-dolphins/) - Marine Connection has contacted the Minister for the Environment in Gibraltar following reports that many dolphins in British Gibraltar Territorial Waters (BGTW), are being injured due to a fishing practice known as “popping’- often used by sport fishermen to catch large pelagic fish such blue-fin tuna. A popper is a fishing lure attached to rod
- [Mexico announce permanent ban on gillnets to save the vaquita porpoise](https://marineconnection.org/mexico-announce-permanent-ban-on-gillnets-to-save-the-vaquita-porpoise/) - Implemented from September 2016, the ban throughout the vaquita's entire range in the upper Gulf of California is crucial to avoid extinction of the world's most endangered cetacean species. Fishermen will have to use specific landing and unloading sites to help enforce protection measures, according to Mexico’s National Aquaculture and Fisheries Commission. Since 2015, the
- [Superpod5, 2016 - bringing orca enthusiasts together](https://marineconnection.org/superpod5-2016-bringing-orca-enthusiasts-together/) - Marine Connection recently attended the annual gathering of Superpod5 on San Juan Island, Washington State. Scientists, NGOs, authors, journalists, former trainers and orca advocates from around the world met to share ideas, network on anti-captivity campaigns and discuss developments to help protect orca in their natural habitat. Ex-SeaWorld trainer and Blackfish cast member Dr Jeffrey
- [Where are K and L pods this year?](https://marineconnection.org/where-are-k-and-l-pods-this-year/) - May and June are normally the months when the Southern Resident orca pods show up in the Salish Sea - an intricate network of coastal waterways that includes the southwestern portion of the Canadian province of British Columbia and the north-western portion of the U.S. state of Washington. The whales are usually seen in large
- [Protecting Hawaii's spinner dolphins](https://marineconnection.org/protecting-hawaiis-spinner-dolphins/) - Swimming with wild spinner dolphins in the waters of Kona, Hawaii is popular with tourists but the increased interest is having an effect on the nocturnal animals. These dolphins rest after foraging for food all night and disturbing their resting behaviours can affect their long term health of the population. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric
- [Tracking Clet, the solitary bottlenose dolphin](https://marineconnection.org/tracking-clet-the-solitary-bottlenose-dolphin/) - Known for his distinctive dorsal fin, Clet the male bottlenose dolphin hasn't been spotted in UK waters since August last year, after travelling hundreds of miles up and down the coasts of France, England, Ireland and Scotland. The first dolphin to be tracked across so many regions, his adventures have now been mapped by multiple
- [NZ bottlenose dolphins at risk](https://marineconnection.org/nz-bottlenose-dolphins-at-risk/) - A Massey University report, prepared on behalf of the Department of Conservation has found that vessel traffic in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand, is affecting important behaviours in a population of bottlenose dolphins. The study, undertaken between December 2012 and April 2015 was to evaluate the effect that marine vessels have on the dolphins
- [Arle Capital - please help retire Lolita](https://marineconnection.org/arle-capital-please-help-retire-lolita/) - Having been personally involved in the campaign to end the keeping of dolphins and whales in captivity worldwide for over two decades I have been very encouraged by the depth of public feeling which appears to be growing year on year on the issue. One such case is Lolita, the orca who has been held
- [Pulling crab pots to save whales](https://marineconnection.org/pulling-crab-pots-to-save-whales/) - The California Department of Fish and Wildlife recently contacted crab fisherman asking them to pull their pots early from Monterey Bay. Normally the season operates from mid-November but this year because of high levels of domoic acid off the California coast the crab season didn't commence until March which has played a role in the
- [Tracking whales with phone app](https://marineconnection.org/tracking-whales-with-phone-app/) - As the whale watching season approaches around New England, (USA) more boat captains are finding that a Whale Alert app is helping to avoid whale collisions. The app provides a real-time display of the ocean and the position of the mariner's ship, along with information about where the whales are located as opposed to a
- [Whale survey cancellation disappointing](https://marineconnection.org/whale-survey-cancellation-disappointing/) - An annual whale survey in Cook Strait which lies between the North and South Islands of New Zealand will not be taking place this year because of a lack of funding. The survey is usually run by the Department of Conservation, (DOC) and takes place over the months of June and July, however oil and
- [Guwahati declares river dolphin as mascot](https://marineconnection.org/guwahati-declares-river-dolphin-as-mascot/) - Guwahati has become the first city in India to have its own City Animal with the Kamrup Metropolitan district administration declaring the Gangetic river dolphin as the mascot. The district administration had organised online and off-line voting among three protected species which are on the verge of extinction - the Gangetic river dolphin, Black softshell
- [UK offshore wind farm put on hold](https://marineconnection.org/uk-offshore-wind-farm-put-on-hold/) - Plans for the world’s biggest offshore wind farm, 55 miles off the coast of Yorkshire have been thrown into doubt over fears the noise of building it will disturb porpoises. A decision on planning permission for Dong Energy’s 1.8 gigawatt Hornsea Two project, which would see up to 300 giant turbines had been due from
- [National Aquarium, Baltimore to move their dolphins to a seaside sanctuary](https://marineconnection.org/national-aquarium-baltimore-to-move-their-dolphins-to-a-seaside-sanctuary/) - The National Aquarium in Baltimore, USA has announced it is to move its dolphins into a seaside sanctuary by 2020. Seven of the dolphins were born in captivity, the location of the sanctuary has as yet not been confirmed. The dolphin shows ended several years ago but the animals have remained on display. Marine Connection
- [New Brunswick Museum study whale carcass](https://marineconnection.org/new-brunswick-museum-study-whale-carcass/) - A 16 foot male Sowerby's beaked whale carcass found washed up near Campbellton, Canada will be cleaned and stored as part of the New Brunswick Museum whale collection. Although in reasonable condition when discovered, possibly having died only a few days beforehand, the necropsy carried out by the Canadian Wildlife Health Co-operative at the University
- [Dolphin with jaw fracture being treated at SeaWorld (update)](https://marineconnection.org/dolphin-with-jaw-fracture-being-treated-at-seaworld/) - 24.06.16 - Update: SeaWorld officials have announced that despite showing some signs of improvement the dolphin has died and a necropsy will now be performed to determine cause of death. Original news item: A common dolphin found stranded on St Malo Beach, Oceanside (north of San Diego, California) has been taken in by SeaWorld and is currently
- [CITES approve permits to move Finland's dolphins to Greece](https://marineconnection.org/cites-approve-permits-to-move-finlands-dolphins-to-greece/) - As members of the Dolphinaria-Free Europe coalition, Marine Connection has today released the following joint press statement on this proposed transfer. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Dolphins Veera, Delfi, Leevi and Eevertti have been in need of a new home since Särkänniemi Theme Park announced on 27th October last year that it would close its dolphinarium. Särkänniemi
- [Researchers investigate whale deaths along Alaska's coastline](https://marineconnection.org/researchers-investigate-whale-deaths-along-alaskas-coastline/) - Researchers are trying to determine what caused the deaths of three large whales found along Alaska’s coastline within a single week in late June. Initially a fin whale died and then two humpbacks, tissue samples have been taken from all three whales and sent to labs for analysis. It may take some time before researchers
- [Possible fishery closures to help aid killer whale population recovery](https://marineconnection.org/possible-fishery-closures-to-help-aid-killer-whale-population-recovery/) - A recovery plan for the Northern and Southern Resident killer whale population has been set out online by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Canada with a 60-day public comment period. The document makes 94 recommendations to help the two distinct whale populations - strategic fishery closures and marine habitat protection are part of the
- [Octavius - having been released back to the wild, is thriving](https://marineconnection.org/octavius-released-back-to-the-wild-and-thriving/) - Octavius the dolphin, named after the veterinarian who cared for him appears to be thriving after being released back into the wild off Louisiana's coast, approximately 2 months ago. Having recently been spotted, he now stands a good chance of survival following months of rehabilitation. The male dolphin was thought to have become stranded as
- [Are dolphins from Finland headed for Greece?](https://marineconnection.org/are-dolphins-from-finland-headed-for-greece/) - Following the recent public event in Tampere in relation to the future of the dolphins from Sarkanniemi dolphinarium, Marine Connection are extremely concerned to report that a deal may have been agreed between Särkänniemi dolphinarium and Attica Zoo in Greece to send the four dolphins from Finland to that facility, as well as two from

## Pages

- [Home](https://marineconnection.org/) - Marine Connection is dedicated to the conservation, protection and welfare of dolphins, whales and porpoises globally.
- [Whaling](https://marineconnection.org/whaling/) - Whaling is a brutal, outdated practice that inflicts unbearable suffering on intelligent, sentient beings – and it must end. Commercial Whaling: A Cruel Practice That Still Continues In 1986, the International Whaling Commission (IWC) implemented a global ban on commercial whaling to protect whale populations from extinction. Yet today, several countries continue to defy this
- [Donate](https://marineconnection.org/donate/) - They can’t choose where they live. Together, we can help protect their freedom. Dolphins and whales belong in the wild – not in tanks, performing for entertainment or suffering because of harmful human practices. With your support, we can build a future where dolphins and whales can live free in the wild. Your donation today
- [FUNdraising events](https://marineconnection.org/fundraising-events/) - Looking for your next challenge? London Marathon🐬 Dreaming of taking on the London Marathon for a cause you care about? Each year, Marine Connection has charity places in this iconic event. Our 2027 places are gone, but 2028 could be your year! We’re excited to have charity places secured for the 2028 London Marathon, and
- [Privacy Policy](https://marineconnection.org/privacy-policy/) - PRIVACY POLICY Marine Connection takes your privacy extremely seriously. We are committed to protecting your privacy and will only use the information that we collect about you lawfully. This policy is intended to give you an understanding of how and why we use the information you give us. Who we are Marine Connection (the data
- [Net Entanglement / Bycatch](https://marineconnection.org/cetacean-bycatch/) - Over 300,000 dolphins, whales, and porpoises die each year after becoming entangled in active and ghost fishing gear. Marine Connection is committed to reducing these deaths. Fishing gear entanglement is a global issue, and the biggest, most serious threat affecting whales, dolphins, and porpoises of all sizes. The physical injuries, stress, and restricted movement caused
- [Drive Hunts](https://marineconnection.org/drive-hunts/) - What is drive hunting? Drive hunting is a brutal practice where dolphins and small whales are herded into shallow bays or onto beaches using boats and loud noises. Once trapped, their escape is blocked with nets, leaving them at the mercy of hunters. In some countries, these animals are slaughtered for meat; in others, they
- [Get Your Act Together](https://marineconnection.org/get-your-act-together/) - In September 2023, we welcomed the passage of the Animals (Low-Welfare Activities Abroad) Act 2023 – landmark legislation intended to stop travel companies in England, Wales and Northern Ireland from advertising or selling cruel animal experiences abroad. These include activities such as dolphin and whale shows, elephant rides, and performances involving big cats and other
- [Malta Campaign](https://marineconnection.org/malta-campaign/) - Despite years of serious welfare concerns at Mediterraneo Marine Park, Maltese authorities continue to fail the dolphins confined there. Five male bottlenose dolphins – Sol, Ninu, Cha, Rohan, and Luqa – remain held in artificial tanks and are used in commercial entertainment, including swim-with programmes, staged photo opportunities, and public performances. These activities require the
- [Malta Letter](https://marineconnection.org/malta-letter/) - Marine Connection continues to monitor the welfare of the five dolphins held at Mediterraneo Marine Park in Malta. In September 2025, after sustained pressure from Marine Connection, the Maltese Government commissioned an on-site welfare assessment. It identified multiple serious welfare concerns, many of which were classified as high or medium priority. Almost a year later,
- [Coalitions & Partnerships](https://marineconnection.org/coalitions-partnerships/) - Joining Forces – achieving more for dolphins and whales Advocacy efforts are significantly strengthened through the formation of coalitions and partnerships. Marine Connection collaborates with like-minded organisations and individuals to maximise impact and achieve greater protection for dolphins, whales, and porpoises.. Dolphinaria-Free Europe (DFE) is a coalition of non-governmental organisations, scientists, and individuals dedicated to
- [Solitary, Sociable Cetaceans](https://marineconnection.org/solitary-sociable-cetaceans/) - Solitary, sociable cetaceans – dolphins or whales that live apart from their own species. While most cetaceans are highly social and live in pods, these individuals are exceptions to the rule. An increasing number of dolphins (and whales) are being observed living solitary lives, separated from their family pods for reasons that remain unclear, including
- [Captivity](https://marineconnection.org/captivity/) - Life for captive cetaceans may appear harmless, however, the reality is very different. Life for captive dolphins and whales is nothing like a life in the ocean.
- [Help us ban captivity in the UK](https://marineconnection.org/help-us-ban-captivity-in-the-uk/) - Thirty-three years ago, the UK’s last dolphinarium closed – a milestone worth celebrating. It marked the end of an era in which dolphins and whales were confined for entertainment. Yet despite this progress, there is still no law preventing new facilities from opening. Between the early 1960s and the 1990s, more than 30 dolphinariums and
- [Strandings & Rescue](https://marineconnection.org/strandings-rescue/) - Strandings of dolphins, whales, and porpoises appear to be increasing. As beaches and coastlines become more popular and accessible, more stranded animals are being reported by the public, this improved reporting may mean more strandings are being observed rather than occurring more often. Cetacean strandings can involve anything from a single animal to groups of
- [News](https://marineconnection.org/news/) - Another beluga whale dies at Shedd Aquarium By Margaux DoddsNews 26-year-old Osiris arrived at Shedd in late July. The cause of death is not immediately clear, although the facility has stated that she had been a whale of clinical concern… Read More September 22, 2026 A voice for whales – not whale killing By Margaux
- [About Us](https://marineconnection.org/about/) - Marine Connection was founded by Margaux Dodds and Liz Sandeman in 1997 after being directly involved in campaigning against, and successfully closing down, the last dolphinariums in the UK.
- [Contact](https://marineconnection.org/contact/) - If you share our mission, we would love to hear from you – whether you’re interested in collaborating, asking questions, or offering support for our ongoing work for dolphins and whales. Phone: 07931 366352 Email: info@marineconnection.org Registered Office Marine Connection Lime House Regency Close Uckfield East Sussex TN22 1DS « Next Post▶ &#9664Previous Post »
- [Jewellery](https://marineconnection.org/jewellery/) - Jewellery inspired by one of the ocean’s most majestic marine mammals, the orca. Designed by Dan Higham specifically for Marine Connection, this stunning bead, hand-made by Nalu in beautiful Italian Murano glass, can be worn in many ways; on a chain, necklace, bracelet, hooped earrings or even threaded through your hair. An easy-to-wear accessory for
- [Volunteer](https://marineconnection.org/volunteer/) - Volunteering is a great way to get more involved with Marine Connection, working for a cause close to your heart. We welcome volunteers with all levels of expertise, the most important thing is a passion for dolphins and whales. The amount of time you give to Marine Connection is flexible – from a couple of
- [Shop online – raise funds for free!](https://marineconnection.org/shop-online-raise-funds-for-free/) - Leading shops and brands make it easy for you to Give as you Live Marine Connection has teamed up with Give as you Live, providing you with an easy way to raise funds to support the charity’s work. With over 4,200 leading shops and brands to choose from, every time you buy from selected retailers,
- [Legal](https://marineconnection.org/legal/) - Legal Information We hope that you enjoy viewing our site and that you find the information you are looking for. During your visit, we would appreciate that you adhere to the copyright statement set forth in regards to graphics, photographs, and intellectual content. In turn, we will respect your privacy and have provided information on our practices in handling personally
- [Site Map](https://marineconnection.org/site-map/) - Pages All PagesAbout UsCaptivityCoalitions & PartnershipsContactDonateDrive HuntsFUNdraising eventsGet Your Act TogetherHelp us ban captivity in the UKHomeJewelleryLegalMalta CampaignMalta LetterNet Entanglement / BycatchNewsPrivacy PolicyShop online – raise funds for free!Sign Up To Our NewsletterSite MapSolitary, Sociable CetaceansStrandings & RescueVolunteerWhaling News News [683] 2026-09-22 Another beluga whale dies at Shedd Aquarium 2026-09-08 A voice for whales - not whale
- [Sign Up To Our Newsletter](https://marineconnection.org/sign-up-to-our-enewsletter/) - Join us to receive updates direct to your inbox, together we can make the world a safer place for all dolphins, whales and porpoises.

## Portfolio

- [Drive Hunts](https://marineconnection.org/portfolio/drive-hunts/)
- [Whaling](https://marineconnection.org/portfolio/whaling2/)
- [UK Cetacean Strandings](https://marineconnection.org/portfolio/rescuestrandings/)
- [Social/Solitary Cetaceans](https://marineconnection.org/portfolio/solitarysocial-or-habituated-cetaceans/)
- [Cetacean Bycatch](https://marineconnection.org/portfolio/cetacean-bycatch/)
- [Captivity](https://marineconnection.org/portfolio/captivity/)

## Categories

- [News](https://marineconnection.org/category/news/)

## Tags

- [whales](https://marineconnection.org/tag/whales/)
- [whaling](https://marineconnection.org/tag/whaling/)
- [gray whales](https://marineconnection.org/tag/gray-whales/)
- [makah tribe](https://marineconnection.org/tag/makah-tribe/)

## Project Categories

- [work](https://marineconnection.org/project-type/work/)
- [home](https://marineconnection.org/project-type/home/)