As reported by USA Today and other media outlets, the Georgia Aquarium - the largest aquarium in the world - recently unveiled a new dolphin theatrical show, AT&T Dolphin Tales. Multiple shows sold out almost immediately as families rushed to the exhibit… but what these animal lovers fail to understand is that dolphins – who are are highly intelligent and socially complex animals – suffer greatly in captivity.
Most of the dolphins at the Georgia Aquarium were born in captivity; however, all dolphins are wild animals and share the same physiological and psychological needs. No aquarium or captive facility can simulate vast ocean and coastal habitats, regardless of how large or well-constructed. Add to that the artificial social groupings, transport between facilities and inability to escape other animals or human observers, and it’s no wonder why dolphins suffer extreme stress and fear, leading to chronic illness and even death while in captivity. Dolphins are among the most charismatic creatures on the planet and it’s understandable what people are drawn to them. Sadly, animal-lovers who pay for these encounters only perpetuate the suffering of these amazing animals. The admission fee may be small, but the dolphins pay a much steeper price. We recommend that anyone in the Atlanta area skip this attraction and check out other exciting experiences Atlanta has to offer.Read related blogs on dolphins in captivity here and here.
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