It’s no wonder that the Caribbean Island of St. Maarten is a popular tourist destination and a frequent port of call for cruise ships – its white, sandy beaches and pristine ocean water make it a haven for vacationers around the world. Unfortunately, plans for a new dolphin aquarium (also known as a "dolphinarium") could soon turn the tropical island into a nightmare for some dolphins.
Dolphins who are forced to live in captivity at dolphin aquariums and “Swim with the Dolphins” facilities often develop stress-related conditions such as ulcers, display stereotypical behaviors such as pacing or self-mutilation, and suffer premature deaths. Yet, these facilities continue to thrive due to high tourist demand – allowing profit to take precedence over the welfare of animals. WSPA has endorsed DDSM’s campaign and we will keep you posted on the progress, including DDSM’s outreach efforts at this week’s world-famous St. Maarten Regatta event. Please help keep St. Maarten captivity-free by signing DDSM’s online petition. Earlier this month, rumors circulated about the establishment of a new “Swim with the Dolphins” facility on St. Maarten. In immediate response to the proposed idea, the dolphin protection group Dolphin Defenders St. Maarten (DDSM) launched an anti-captivity campaign – rallying support from locals and tourists, collecting petition signatures and conducting various education efforts.
Comments