Background on Dolphin Discovery and Relevance
Dolphin Discovery, an aquarium in Cancún, Quintana Roo, Mexico, has been under scrutiny following the closure of Ventura Park in January. Social media posts highlighted concerns about the abandonment of dolphins within the adjacent aquarium’s tanks.
Government Intervention and Confirmation
The Secretariat of Ecology and Environment (SEMA) in Quintana Roo confirmed the presence of nine dolphins at the Dolphin Discovery aquarium. Oscar Rébora, the head of SEMA, clarified that although social media initially pointed to Ventura Park, Dolphin Discovery is the responsible party for the dolphinarium.
SEMA’s Actions and Dolphin Care
Rébora stated that SEMA, along with Profepa, visited the site following social media posts. They found the dolphinarium under custodial measures and confirmed that the nine dolphins, including Mincho, receive veterinary care, proper nutrition, and responsible personnel under authority supervision.
Relocation Plan for Dolphins
Rébora emphasized that the dolphins’ presence does not imply long-term stay. Under the Ley Mincho, which was enacted due to concerns about animal welfare, a responsible transition and relocation plan will be implemented within five months. The process will have continuous oversight.
Dolphin Discovery’s Statement
Dolphin Discovery released a statement asserting that their dolphins in Dolphin Cancún continue under the care of veterinarians and marine mammal specialists. Despite the temporary suspension of operations in August, daily attention, resident veterinarian supervision, preventive medicine protocols, and customized diets are provided.
Addressing Social Media Concerns
The company refuted the abandonment claims visible in social media videos by explaining that daily positive reinforcement training and environmental enrichment routines are conducted to maintain an optimal habitat and ensure the dolphins’ physical, mental, and social needs are met.
Clarification on Ventura Park
Dolphin Discovery distanced itself from any responsibility regarding Ventura Park, noting that the Dolphin Cancún facilities are separate from the water park, which is not part of their operational group.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is responsible for the dolphins? Dolphin Discovery is responsible for the dolphinarium and the nine dolphins found there.
- What is the current status of the dolphins? The dolphins are under veterinary care, proper nutrition, and responsible personnel with authority supervision.
- What is the plan for the dolphins’ relocation? A responsible transition and relocation plan will be implemented within five months, with continuous oversight.
- Are the dolphins receiving proper care despite the aquarium’s closure? Yes, daily attention, resident veterinarian supervision, preventive medicine protocols, and customized diets continue for the dolphins.
- How does Dolphin Discovery address social media concerns about abandonment? The company refutes the claims and explains that daily positive reinforcement training and environmental enrichment routines are conducted to ensure the dolphins’ well-being.
- Is Dolphin Discovery associated with Ventura Park? No, the facilities are separate, and Ventura Park is not part of Dolphin Discovery’s operational group.
