Video of a Captive Dolphin Bobbing Helplessly in Tank Shows Why We Need to do Better (VIDEO)

Dolphins are among the most complex and intelligent species on the planet. They are self-aware and have the ability to recognize themselves in a mirror and notice changes in their appearance. And just like us, they have deep social and emotional bonds with their pod members. Studies have also shown that dolphins have personalized whistles for members in the pod, similar to how humans give each other names. Despite all of this, humans still continue to keep dolphins in marine parks for the sake of our paltry entertainment.

In the video above, shared by Empty the Tanks, Hawaii, a dolphin at Sea Life Park in Hawaii appears to be extremely distressed, likely the result of being forced to stay in a tank nothing like her natural habitat. These tanks are a tiny fraction of the space these animals enjoy in the wild, so dolphins and other marine animals become understandably bored and frustrated by this stale life. Dolphins will sometimes exhibit stereotypical behaviors such as swimming in circles repetitively and lying motionless at the surface or on the floor for long periods of time. In some heartbreaking instances, dolphins can choose to consciously stop breathing and end their own lives.

But we can stand up to this abuse by refusing to patronize marine parks. Once these facilities stop profiting from showing animals, they will close up shop. Please share this post with your friends and family to help raise awareness for dolphins and other marine animals. Together we can make a difference!