At SeaWorld San Diego, whales and dolphins are still confined in small concrete tanks that fail to meet their physical or psychological needs. A new study confirms that no tank—no matter how large—can replicate the natural ocean environments these animals need to thrive.

Whales and dolphins in captivity live in a world of deprivation. They are denied the ability to form natural social bonds, hunt, dive deep, or travel freely. Instead, they are bred in captivity, trained to perform, and confined for life in enclosures built for human entertainment.

The research shows what this captivity costs: chronic stress, dental damage, illness, and premature death. Some engage in repetitive behaviors or self-harm as they struggle to cope with the artificial conditions of tank life.

SeaWorld San Diego continues to profit from this suffering. Even though orca breeding has ended, the park still breeds other cetaceans, creating more animals destined for life in a tank.

We are calling on SeaWorld San Diego to stop breeding all whales and dolphins and to commit to relocating them to seaside sanctuaries—protected ocean areas where they can live in more natural, dynamic environments with access to real ocean water, currents, and space.

These animals have given enough. It is time to give them a life that reflects their intelligence, their needs, and their right to freedom.

Sign now to demand SeaWorld San Diego end captive breeding and begin a real transition to sanctuary care.

Photo: SeaWorldofHurt