The Save Japan Dolphins Coalition is urging Solomon Islands government to consider halting Ocean Embassy/WIN from continuing their dolphin capture business in the country.
This follows an announcement of the closure of a major Panama company planning to capture and traffic in live dolphins in the face of widespread public opposition.Director of the Save Japan Dolphins Coalition, Richard O'Barry stated that closure of the Panama Company "is great news for dolphins and the people who love them".
Mr. O'Barry highlighted that whilst too many aquariums and swim-with-dolphins operations are opening all around the world to cater to public interest in dolphins, these mammals do not do well in captivity, stolen from their own pods and families.
"Subjecting live dolphins to capture and captivity in small tanks is akin to putting people in prison," he warned.
Mr. O'Barry visited Panama to publicize the dangers to wild dolphins from Ocean Embassy.
"Now, Panama can lay claim to being a Dolphin Friendly nation that protects its wild heritage instead of selling it off to the highest bidder. We salute the people and the government of Panama for their efforts to protect wild dolphins."
Mr. O'Barry urged the Government of Solomon Islands to follow in the lead of Panama and halt Ocean Embassy/WIN from continuing their dolphin capture business in the country.
"We intend to continue our campaign to stop Ocean Embassy/Wildlife International Network from capturing and exporting dolphins from the Solomon Islands," he said.
He stressed that dolphins should be free and enjoyed in the wild, not in captivity.