Controversy Over Planned Transfer of Dolphins from Greek Zoo to U.S. Aquarium

10:08 3/2/2025 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

The planned transfer of five dolphins from the Attica Zoological Park in Greece to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium in Florida has sparked controversy, drawing criticism from marine conservation organizations.

The Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation has raised concerns over the 10,000-kilometer (6,200-mile) relocation, arguing that it will subject the dolphins to a stressful and painful journey

only to be confined in concrete tanks for the rest of their lives.

The organization also claims that the move constitutes a commercial transaction, a claim that the owner of Attica Zoological Park denies.

“I want to clarify that no dolphin is being sold. It is a fundamental principle of our association that animals are neither bought nor sold,” said Jean-Jacques Lesueur, founder of the Attica Zoological Park. Mr. Lesueur explained that the transfer is part of an exchange program between certified zoological parks, approved by scientific committees consisting of veterinarians and animal care experts.

“For animals like dolphins, these committees, once we decided that we no longer wished to keep this species, approved their transfer to this specific park,” Mr. Lesueur added in a statement to Greek news outlet iefimerida.

The dolphins will be transported via a specially equipped aircraft, a process that has also drawn criticism from Archipelagos.

“In all civilized countries, such parks have closed. Yet in the United States, Turkey, and Greece, we continue to imprison animals,” said Theodoros Tsimpidis, director of the Archipelagos Institute.

Mr. Tsimpidis described the transfer as part of the wildlife trade, alleging that each dolphin could be valued between $35,000 and $40,000.

Mr. Lesueur countered these claims, emphasizing that under the regulations of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria, animal sales do not take place.

However, Mr. Tsimpidis dismissed this assertion, arguing that the association’s primary goal is the exchange of animals for commercial purposes.

“These five dolphins are being sent to one of the most commercial dolphinariums in the U.S.,” Mr. Tsimpidis said. “They will go from being a low-cost attraction to part of high-priced shows that offer VIP experiences at premium rates.”

The controversy highlights the ongoing debate over the ethics of keeping marine mammals in captivity, with animal welfare advocates calling for greater transparency and alternatives to relocating captive dolphins into new facilities.

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