3Psychological and Physical Effects of Captivity
The impact of captivity on dolphins is profound, affecting both their physical and psychological health. In the wild, dolphins swim up to 100 miles a day, exploring diverse underwater landscapes and engaging in complex social interactions. In captivity, the limited space and monotonous environment lead to physical and mental deterioration. Captive dolphins often exhibit signs of stress and depression, such as repetitive behaviors, loss of appetite, and self-inflicted injuries.
The physical health of captive dolphins also suffers due to inadequate living conditions. The chemically treated water in tanks can cause skin and eye problems, while the lack of natural stimuli results in weakened immune systems. Furthermore, the dietary changes in captivity, where dolphins are fed dead fish instead of hunting live prey, can lead to nutritional deficiencies and related health issues. These factors collectively shorten the lifespan of captive dolphins compared to their wild counterparts.
