Three Endangered Humpback Dolphins Were Released Back Into The Ocean After Being Illegally Captured & Sold To A Resort In Bahrain

Some hopeful news as three humpback dolphins have been released more than a year after being illegally captured for display at an aquarium in a resort in Bahrain.

Indian Ocean humpback dolphins are listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List and sadly their numbers are decreasing.

In Bahrain’s first-ever operation of its kind, the dolphins were released back into the ocean following a decision by Bahrain authorities to convict three fishermen of poaching the dolphins and selling them to a resort specializing in dolphin shows.

Working with key agencies in Bahrain, including the Supreme Council for Environment, Public Prosecution, Coast Guard Department, General Administration of Civil ‎Defense, Tails Veterinary Clinic, and others, IFAW made sure that the dolphins were in good condition to be released.

“The release will be life-changing for the three dolphins, from confinement in a pool contaminated with rusty leaks from a poorly maintained ceiling, where they were forced to perform daily for public entertainment, they are now swimming free in the ocean,” said Brian Sharp, Director of IFAW’S Marine Mammal Rescue Program.

“The work does not end with the release of the dolphins. We will closely monitor these animals via satellite trackers, thanks to a contribution from the Dutch Postcode Lottery, as they re-adjust to their natural environment after over a year in illegal forced captivity. We should all dedicate ourselves to make sure this does not happen again.”

Dr. Mohamed bin Mubarak Bin Daina,‎ said that the Constitution of Bahrain ensures the protection of the ‎environment and the preservation of its resources.‎ Bahrain is a signatory to international conventions, such as CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), and the IUCN.

Najat Tarrada, co-founder of Tails Veterinary Clinic, said that “in coordination with IFAW, the clinic provided comprehensive veterinary examinations diagnosing the health of the dolphins. Tails also managed their safety during the transportation of the animals to the release site as well as supervised the placement of the tracking devices and helped to ensure that the dolphins were safely released.”

You can help all animals and our planet by choosing compassion on your plate and in your glass. #GoVeg