Act Right Now To Help Save A Species!
We need you to join WDC to ACT RIGHT NOW! With fewer than 500 remaining, the North Atlantic right whale is on the brink of extinction. We have to pressure the US government to quickly introduce regulations that will help save a species!

WDC Mourns The Loss Of Istar
It is with great sadness that we report the death of one of our beloved Whale Adoption Project’s humpback whales, Istar.

WDC Met With Obama's Administration In Washington, DC
On Thursday April 11, 2025 Regina Asmutis-Silvia, WDC Executive Director, NA traveled to Washington, DC to address the plight of the right whale with government appointed decision makers.

Veterinary Analysis Of Dolphin Killing Methods In Taiji Released
New veterinary analysis of dolphin slaughter reveals shocking levels of cruelty.

Right Whale Obituary Series: Stumpy
Continuing to highlight individual North Atlantic right whales that we have lost due to vessel strikes or entanglement in fishing gear: On February 5th, 2004 a 29 year old pregnant right whale named Stumpy was struck and killed.

Dolphin SMART Training Workshops Set For Florida
WDC and partners will hold two training workshops for operators interested in in participating in the Dolphin SMART program on February 21st and 25th in central and southwest Florida.

Fight For Survival: New-born Right Whale In Cape Cod Bay Faces Many Challenges To Survive.
WDC, Whale and Dolphin Conservation fights to protect this vulnerable species. The mother and calf North Atlantic right whales that were discovered in Cape Cod Bay by Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC) on January 12th are up against major challenges.

WDC Increases Reward Fund In Renewed Attempt To Solve Gulf Dolphin Crimes
WDC renews its call for information regarding targeted dolphin killings in the Gulf of Mexico.

Right Whale Obituary Series: Lucky
This obituary series is highlighting known individual right whales that have been killed as the result of human interaction. It doesn't have to be this way if we Act Right Now.

Dead, Entangled, Right Whale Washes Up On Florida Beach
In the wake of the recent death of an entangled right whale in waters off the northeastern coast of Florida, WDC and The HSUS urge NOAA to take several key actions that will better protect right whales.

WDC Opposes Proposed Beluga Import To Thailand
Safari Land, Thailand seeks to import 6 belugas from Russia, replacing three belugas that have recently died at its facility in Bangkok.

No Reprieve For Dolphins In Taiji
Over 200 bottlenose dolphins driven into the Cove in Taiji, Japan.

Reyna, The North Atlantic Right Whale
As part of Act Right Now, individual North Atlantic right whales’ stories are bring highlighted in a series of obituaries to illustrate the need for increased protections.

Another 'Grind' In The Faroe Islands
The lastest grind in the Faroe Islands claims the lives of 45 pilot whales.

More Heartbreak In Taiji
15 pilot whales are killed in Taiji, while another 80-90 whales await their fate as they are held in the killing cove.

Shop Now And Support WDC!
A work of art leads to a beautiful partnership! The White Starfish, together with Matthew Smith, is pleased to announce their new endeavor to support our work. From now until the end of the year they will donate 25% of purchases to WDC.

We Have A Brand New Image!
The Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society, which is 25 years old this year, has become WDC, Whale and Dolphin Conservation. WDC has an updated logo and has created a new, strong design theme to help get our message across wherever it matters most!

NOAA’s New Northeast Chief’s First Official Act - Undermining The Marine Mammal Protection Act?
Against the recommendations of the federally appointed Harbor Porpoise Take Reduction Team,the newly named Northeast Fisheries Administrator is circumventing the process to reduce by-catch (incidental death) of harbor porpoise.

Orca Suffers Serious Injury At SeaWorld
Nakai, an 11-year-old male orca at SeaWorld San Diego, is recovering from a serious injury.

WDCS Offers Reward After Dolphin Is Shot Dead
WDCS is offering a $1500 reward for information relating to the shooting of a protected bottlenose dolphin in Louisiana.

Help Stop Beluga Whale Import Into US
The Georgia Aquarium in the US is seeking to import 18 wild-caught white whales - belugas - from the Sea of Okhotsk, Russia. We need your help to stop this terrible trade that would likely condemn the whales to a shortened life in captivity.

Dolphin Drive Hunt Season Starts In Taiji, Japan
On September 7th, fishermen in Taiji, Japan rounded up over 20 pilot whales marking the first drive hunt of the season.

Georgia Aquarium Applies For Permit To Import Wild-Captured Belugas Into The US
In a controversial move, the Georgia Aquarium has applied to import 18 wild-caught beluga whales from Russia.

WDCS And Partners Call For An End To The ‘Grinds’ In The Faroe Islands
WDCS joins a coalition of conservation and animal welfare groups to call for an end to the pilot whale drive hunts, or grinds, in the Faroe Islands.

WDCS Joins Japan Dolphin Day 2012
As the dolphin drive hunt season begins in Taiji, Japan, WDCS joins individuals and organizations the world over to protest the commencement of these brutal hunts.

Shouka Transferred To SeaWorld California
Shouka, a female killer whale, was transferred from Six Flags to SeaWorld California in the early morning hours of Monday, August 20th.

More Pilot Whales Killed In The Faroe Islands
At least 196 pilot whales were killed in a recent grind in Vagur, on the island of Suduroy, Faroe Islands.

Ikaika Healing From Injury At SeaWorld California
Photos circulating on the internet reveal that Ike has been injured at SeaWorld California.

Shocking Video Released
The video of the near-death interaction between Kasatka, a killer whale at SeaWorld California, and her trainer Ken Peters, is released.

SeaWorld Loses Appeal
SeaWorld has been denied a review of its case by the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission, thwarting its recent attempts to contest a citation by OSHA for safety violations.

Poll Reveals Americans Oppose Keeping Orcas In Captivity
WDCS releases the first-ever nationwide opinion poll gauging attitudes about keeping orcas in captivity that shows more Americans oppose than support the practice.

Another Grind In The Faroe Islands
WDCS has received the unfortunate news that another ‘grind’ (drive hunt) has taken place in the Faroe Islands where approximately 60 pilot whales were killed on July 10th.

WDCS Offers Reward In Dolphin Death
WDCS is seeking information regarding the recent death of a bottlenose dolphin that was found with a screwdriver in its head near the Alabama-Florida border.

Ship Speed Limits Sought Off Atlantic Coast To Protect Endangered Right Whales
WDCS in partnership with conservation and animal protection groups filed a legal petition seeking to extend and expand the 10kt ship speed rule beyond its December 2013 expiration date in order to avoid collisions that kill endangered whales.

VOTE WDCS - Moosejaw In Natick
Drop by the Natick Moosejaw Mountaineering Shop anytime this week to cast your vote for WDCS. Look for our box: each vote earns WDCS $5 and MORE.

VOTE WDCS - Moosejaw In Natick
Drop by the Natick Moosejaw Mountaineering Shop anytime this week to cast your vote for WDCS. Look for our box: each vote earns $5 for WDCS!

Haiti Ocean Project Recognized By US State Department
WDCS is pleased to announce its Haiti Ocean Project has been recognized by 'Doors to Diplomacy.'

World Oceans Day
WDCS leads by example today and everyday! Since 1992 World Oceans Day has been an opportunity for all to reflect on the importance of our oceans, appreciate the role they play in the lives of every individual organism on Earth, and empower communities!

120 Pilot Whales Killed In The Faroe Islands
WDCS reports the news of a grind that occurred the morning of June 5th, where 120 pilot whales were killed in Sandur,Faroe Islands.

Judge’s Ruling Delivers Blow To SeaWorld
Citation that may end SeaWorld trainers working in the water with orcas is upheld. WDCS welcomes the long-awaited verdict delivered in the past 24 hours which could mark the permanent end to trainers in the water with orcas at SeaWorld.

Dolphin Safe Labeling In Trouble?
A World Trade Organization (WTO) appellate panel rules that US ‘dolphin safe’ tuna labeling laws unfairly discriminate against Mexico and its tuna products.

WDCS Dismayed By Recent Grind In The Faroe Islands
Reports indicate that 63 pilot whales were killed in the Faroe Islands on Wednesday, May 16th.

Whale Awareness & You!
Here are five easy ways to celebrate Massachusetts Whale Awareness Day or ANY day. These simple actions will make a difference and we're sure you'll appreciate the role you'll play in making a change!

WDCS And Partners Reveal Unseen Threat To Orcas In Captivity
WDCS, along with former SeaWorld orca trainers, John Jett and Jeff Ventre, will present new information at the Florida Marine Mammal Health Conference starting today in Sarasota, Florida.

More On Ocean Frontiers - May 3, 2025
We are eager to share this documentary on ocean stewardship and an informative panel with our supporters and the community. Join us at Maxwell Theater in Plimoth Plantation's Welcome Center on Thursday May 3rd: Massachussetts Whale Awareness Day.

New Dolphin SMART Operator Recognized In Hawaii
WDCS is proud to announce the newest Dolphin SMART operator to Hawaii, Hoku Naia, operated by Star of Honolulu cruises.

Dolphins Shipped From Japan To Vietnam
WDCS calls on Hong Kong Airlines to cease further shipments of dolphins! We need your help!

Big Miracle Opens In The US
WDCS welcomes this heartwarming tale of international collaboration and unity in aiding three gray whales trapped in ice in Point Barrow, Alaska.

An Uncertain Future For SeaWorld
As we await the results from the OSHA vs. SeaWorld Florida hearing that concluded in mid-November, SeaWorld remains under fire.

Dolphin SMART Continues To Expand In Hawaii
WDCS and partners welcome a third dolphin tour operator into the Dolphin SMART wild dolphin conservation program in Hawaii.

Morgan Having A Rough Time At Loro Parque
WDCS's fears for the welfare of Morgan the orca have sadly been proven correct sooner than previously thought.

No Reprieve For Dolphins In Taiji
As we head into the holidays, and despite word from Taiji, Japan that there may be a short cessation in the drive hunts as the fishermen take a break for the holiday season, we are saddened by the recent turn of events there.

Endangered Right Whales Spotted Off Plymouth
When the phone rang at our office of last Wednesday, no one expected the caller to report critically endangered right whales visible from shore.

More Pilot Whales Killed In The Faroese ‘Grinds’
It is with grave concern that WDCS has received reports that several ‘grinds’ have recently occurred in the Faroe Islands.

SeaWorld V. OSHA Round Two: A Week In Review
The continuation of the legal hearing between SeaWorld of Florida and the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommenced on Tuesday, November 15th in Florida and concluded on Friday.

WDCS To Attend SMM Biennial Conference In Tampa
WDCS will be presenting important research at the forthcoming Biennial Conference of the Society for Marine Mammalogy.

167 Pilot Whales Killed In Faroe Islands
WDCS is horrified by news that 167 pilot whales were killed Sunday in Funningsfirdi, Faroe Islands. This bring the total number of pilot whales killed during the 2011 Grindadrap ( The Grind ) to 575.

SeaWorld V. OSHA: Round Two
Sea World Hearing Resumes on November 15 near Orlando, Florida.

Morgan The Orca Update
Morgan the orca’s fate remains undecided following an appeal court case yesterday between animal welfare groups and the Dutch Harderwijk Dolphinarium. 

Groups File Lawsuit To Prevent Illegal Deaths Of Endangered Whales
WDCS in partnership with the Humane Society of the United States and Defenders of Wildlife has filed suit against the National Marine Fisheries Service for continuing to allow four federal fisheries to injure and kill endangered whales.

Illegal Trade In Whale Meat From Iceland’s International Airport Exposed
Defying a worldwide ban on trade in whale products, Iceland is openly selling whale meat packaged for export in the departure area at Keflavik airport to travelers who, if they make the purchase, risk stiff penalties on arrival at their home destination.

The Whale: Raising Awareness And Questions
This film shows what remarkable and intelligent animals orcas are and carries a strong anti-captivity message which WDCS applauds. While it doesn't explore all the reasons for the different approaches advocated for Luna’s care, we certainly recommend it

The Real Price Of A Vacation At SeaWorld
New video reveals another dark side to orcas in captivity.

Dolphin SMART Expands To Hawaii And Recognizes First Program Participants
WDCS and partners welcome two new Hawaii dolphin tour operators into the Dolphin SMART wild dolphin conservation program. 

A Dolphin Tale Opens In US Theaters
In December 2005, an injured baby female dolphin was spotted by a fisherman and rescued from entanglement in a crab trap in Mosquito Lagoon, near Canaveral National Seashore on Florida’s eastern coastline.

SeaWorld Court Challenge Over US Government Reprimand Finally Begins
WDCS will attend the long-awaited hearing next week where SeaWorld will challenge the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) ruling from August 2010 that officially reprimanded the marine park for safety violations.

Dolphin Death Stirs Captivity Debate
The tragic death of a captive bottlenose dolphin at the Brookfield Zoo in Chicago earlier this month has brought further criticism of the keeping of whales and dolphins in captivity.

Wild Dolphin Conservation Program Expands To Hawaiian Islands
Dolphin SMART training to be held September 7 on Oahu, Hawaii.

Another Drive Hunt Season To Begin In Taiji, Japan
September signals not only the beginning of the end of another summer, but also the dreaded beginning of a new hunting season in Taiji. Please support our campaign to end dolphin drive hunts in Japan.

Court Rules To Keep Morgan In The Netherlands For Now
WDCS applauds today's decision by a Netherland’s court to not transfer Morgan to the Loro Parque zoo in the Canary Islands, at least in the short term.

Dolphin SMART Continues To Expand Along Florida’s West Coast
The Florida Aquarium’s Wild Dolphin Ecotour is recognized as Dolphin SMART.

WDCS Supports The Continued Expansion Of WhaleSENSE
As the third year of the WhaleSENSE program gets underway, three more whale watching companies have signed up to practice and promote responsible whale watching.

Documents Prove Mosquito-borne Virus Responsible For Captive Orca Death
WDCS has received disconcerting and recently-discovered information relating to the premature death of Kanduke, a 25 year-old wild-caught male orca who died suddenly and prematurely in the summer of 1990 at SeaWorld Florida.

Whale Like Me Short Film Contest
Interested in making a short, 30 second to 4 minute film about the relationship between humankind and whales in today's complex world? Film maker, student or just fancy giving it a go for the first time? Why not enter our fantastic film contest?

Read All About It! New Publication From WDCS Hits The Bookshops
The latest, fascinating book from WDCS is now out. 'Whales and Dolphins' brings together a wide range of experts to look again at what we know of these amazing creatures. Find out more, and how you can order a copy.

Pilot Whales Driven Into The Cove In Taiji
WDCS has received the news that up to 75 pilot whales were driven into the cove in Taiji on Wednesday, May 4th.

WDCS Is Pleased To Announce The Publication And Launch Of The Mermaid And The Dolphin
Written and directed by Ran Levy-Yamamori, this animated video and children’s book is part of an international campaign to stop the slaughter of dolphins and whales worldwide.

NOAA Designates Critical Habitat For Endangered Belugas
NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service announced April 8, 2025 its designation of two areas of Alaska’s Cook Inlet as critical habitat for the endangered Cook Inlet beluga whale.

Deepwater Horizon One Year On: Has Anything Changed?
On 20th April 2010, one year ago, an explosion on the oil rig Deepwater Horizon killed 11 people and resulted in the largest oil spill in the history of the United States of America, creating an ecological disaster.

SeaWorld V. Osha Hearing Put On Hold Until September
An administrative judge with the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission has granted an order postponing the start of the hearings until Sept. 19. They had been scheduled to begin April 25.

Sea Life Arizona Announces Poster Contest
Sea Life Arizona, Bear Essential News and WDCS announce their second annual poster contest for local children. The 2011 theme is “Which creature in the sea would you most like to be?”

Will Endangered Southern Resident Orcas Gain Much-deserved Protection?
WDCS is concerned to learn that the Southern Resident orcas, listed in 2005 as an endangered species, may not receive the necessary protections that they deserve and require for any chances of recovery. 

Georgia Aquarium Opens New Dolphin Exhibit
WDCS is disheartened to announce the opening of the Georgia Aquarium’s new dolphin exhibit called “Dolphin Tales,” to debut on Saturday, April 2nd.

Tilikum To Return To 'Believe' Show At SeaWorld Orlando
WDCS has learned that SeaWorld will be reintroducing Tilikum to its 'Believe' show in Orlando, just weeks before it faces US health and safety authorities in a court hearing.

Upcoming 4th Annual Naturalist Workshop
WDCS, the Dolphin Fleet and the Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies are hosting the 4th Annual Naturalist Workshop from April 8th to April 10th in Proviencetown.

The Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill - The Ongoing Disaster
The impacts from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill not only continue in the Gulf but have resulted in a domino effect of upsets to whales and dolphins throughout the US.

2nd Right Whale Death Highlights Threat To Species
WDCS has just learned of the discovery of yet another dead critically endangered North Atlantic right whale. It was the second death in February for a species of which only 300-400 animals survive today.

Orca - Hostage To Fortune?
After a year of tragedy for both orcas and trainers alike, WDCS asks what lessons have been learned?

Orca Watch
WDCS brings you an expert update on the sinister, disturbing world of orcas kept in captivity.

SeaWorld Moves To Close April 25th Hearing!
WDCS has recently been notified that SeaWorld has requested a protective order banning the public from the hearing to occur on April 25th where it will contest the August fine and ‘willful’ citation issued by OSHA.

Whaling In Trouble: Keep Up The Pressure
Please support our whaling campaign and encourage the US government to impose trade sanctions on Iceland.

Sea World's New Show Keeps Trainers Out Of The Water
A new show will debut this Spring at Sea World parks but it will not include trainers interacting in the water with the company's orcas or killer whales.

Nami From Taiji Dies At Nagoya Aquarium
A female orca called Nami has died at the Port Nagoya Aquarium in Japan.

Obama Administration Moves Back Towards Business As Usual In The Gulf Of Mexico.
WDCS has expressed its dismay at the announcement that the Obama administration will now waive additional environmental reviews for 13 Gulf of Mexico oil drilling companies.

New Dolphin SMART Operator Recognized In The Florida Keys
WDCS and partners welcome a new Florida Keys tour operator into the Dolphin SMART wild dolphin conservation program. 

MASSACHUSETTS MAN CONVICTED FOR TRAFFICKING IN ILLEGALLY-IMPORTED SPERM WHALE TEETH AND NARWHAL TUSK
A Massachusetts man was convicted by a jury in federal court in Boston of seven felonies related to the illegal importation and illegal trafficking of sperm whale teeth and narwhal tusks.

WDCS's Sue Fisher To Present At ACS Conference
Sue Fisher will be speaking about the politics of the International Whaling Commission at this weekend's American Cetacean Society's conference. The conference is a gathering of scientists, policy makers, and conservationists from all over the world t

Wild Dolphin Conservation Program Expands Along Florida’s West Coast
Tour Operators in St. Petersburg and Ft. Myers Earn Dolphin SMART Recognition

Dolphin Drive Hunts Continue In Taiji
In the biggest slaughter of dolphins to take place this season, 52 bottlenose dolphins and seven Risso's dolphins were slaughtered by fishermen in the infamous cove in Taiji on October 26th.

Join WDCS In Protesting The Dolphin Drive Hunts!
Join WDCS and its partners on October 7th in Boston to protest the dolphin drive hunts in Japan.

Another Captive Orca Dies Prematurely
A young male orca died yesterday at SeaWorld San Diego, the third orca to die at SeaWorld facilities this year.

The Dolphin Drive Hunt Season Begins In Taiji, Japan
A representative for WDCS who is on the ground in Japan announced the unfortunate commencement of the dolphin drive hunts in Taiji, Japan on Wednesday, September 1.

WDCS Surveying In The Gulf Of Mexico
WDCS biologist Sue Rocca is on a 2-week leg of a multi-discipline research cruise aboard the Greenpeace ship Arctic Sunrise in the Gulf of Mexico.

OSHA Cites SeaWorld In Trainer Death
WDCS responds to the release of the official announcement by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) detailing its investigation into the death of an orca trainer at Sea World Orlando in late February.

Is The Fish You Buy Supplied By Icelandic Whalers?
Iceland’s whaling and fishing industries are inextricably linked. Help us send a message to the Icelandic government that the public does not want to eat fish supplied by companies linked to whaling.

‘Free Dem Whalez’ Rap Video Acknowledged By Blue Ocean Film Festival
WDCS is excited to announce that its Pier2Pier video, Free Dem Whalez, created by the students of Leesburg High School highlighting the issue of orcas in captivity has been nominated as a Finalist at the Blue Ocean Film Festival .

2010 - Research Cruise Success!
The 2010 WDCS-North America research season has marked it's half-way point as July ends. So far, so amazing! Over 200 individually identified humpbacks have been sighted including more than 30 new calves!

Dolphin SMART Program Expands In Florida And Recognizes First Participate In St. Petersburg, Florida
To help protect wild dolphins along Florida’s southwest coast, NOAA’s Fisheries Service and Office of National Marine Sanctuaries and WDCS expand the Dolphin SMART program to Ft. Myers, Sarasota, and the St. Petersburg/Tampa areas.

IWC Harpoons Humpback Whales In “horse-trading” Decision
Despite huge concerns from many delegations, the International Whaling Commission (IWC) has just adopted a new quota for Greenland's so-called aboriginal subsistence whaling (ASW).

Captive Beluga Dies At Vancouver Aquarium
A one-year-old beluga, born in captivity, has died at the Vancouver Aquarium. She had a blocked airway and was unable to breathe.

School Children Deliver Clear Message To EU - Please Stop Whaling!
A mass postcard petition against the return of commercial whaling has been hand-delivered to the EU Commissioner for the Environment today, 22nd June, 11:30hrs.

Whaling Ban Stays In Place
Our thanks to all of you for helping ensure that the moratorium (ban) still stands and commercial whaling is not endorsed at this year's IWC.

Whaling Conference Starts Amidst Scandal, Corruption And Secrecy
Only shortly after the long anticipated 62nd annual Meeting of the International Whaling Commission (IWC) was opened in Agadir, Morocco on Monday, the meeting was swiftly closed to all but Government delegates.

USA And New Zealand Pushing To Reward Whaling Outlaws
Monday 21st June heralds the start of one of the most significant weeks that conservationists may see for some time to come, when the International Whaling Commission (IWC) votes on the fate of the 24 year ban on commercial whaling in Agadir, Morocco.

Reinventing The Whale
A new report by WDCS released today reveals the real reason behind the whaling nations desire to lift the whaling moratorium – they have long-term plans to develop new commercial applications for whale oil including in pharmaceuticals and animal feed.

WDCS Launches New Film To Support Whaling Campaign
WDCS has launched a graphic film featuring model, Alice Dellal to move millions of people to sign up to our online e-protest against the proposed lifting of the commercial whaling ban.

Australia Takes Japan To Court
In an official press statement earlier today (May 28th), the Australian Government has announced legal action against Japanese whaling at the International Court of Justice.

WDCS Files Suit To Protect NA Right Whales
(May 25, 2025) BOSTON—Litigation filed today in federal court seeks to expand habitat protections for the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale to include the whale’s nursery, breeding and feeding grounds.

90 Seconds Telling All You Need To Know About Whaling
Germany’s top actor, Mario Adorf, narrates “Jenny”, a 90 seconds true story, with his distinctive and enthralling voice. 90 seconds. 90 seconds that tells you all you need to know about whaling.

Oil Spills Proliferate - The WDCS View
Three major oil spill incidents have occurred in less than a year. Two of these have involved underwater drilling rigs (North West Australia and the Gulf of Mexico) and the other a coal freighter running aground on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

SEA LIFE Arizona Opens May 14!
SEA LIFE Arizona opens today at Arizona Mills in Tempe, Arizona.

Congressional Hearing To Look Into The Education And Conservation Aspects Of Captivity
WDCS welcomes the announcement of a congressional oversight hearing looking into the educational aspects of whales and dolphins in captivity, also known as ‘public display’.

Dolphin SMART Training Workshops To Be Held In Central And Southwest Florida
Be a part of the expansion of Dolphin SMART to the central coast of Florida! Join us at one of the upcoming training workshops being held on May 12, 13 & 17, 2010. 

Earth Day Whale Rally
On Earth Day details of a deal will be released that will signal a resumption commercial whaling. Within weeks the US will decide whether to back the plan which will include whaling in a whale sanctuary and on endangered species. The Rally for Whales and

Whale Rap Song Hits The Airwaves!
Students from our Pier2Pier Project in Florida Rap against Whales in Captivity! Listen to the rap song and watch them on YouTube!

A Good Deal For Whalers And A Poor Deal For Whales
In this month's New Scientist magazine, two experts from WDCS deliver an important critique of the increasingly controversial proposal to be put to the vote at the next International Whaling Commission meeting in June.

Whale Watch Naturalist Workshop
The fourth annual whale watch naturalist workshop will be held in Provincetown, Massachusetts next weekend. (April 9th- 11th). The annual workshop is once again sponsored by WDCS, the Dolphin Fleet, and the Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies (PCCS).

Autopsy Report Released On Sea World Trainer Death
An autopsy report on the death of a Sea World trainer in Orlando in February was released this week.

NA Right Whale Gives Birth Next To Proposed Navy Training Range
On March 20th, while conducting surveys of an area the Navy plans to use for Undersea Warfare Training (USWTR) off Florida, scientists documented the birth of a critically endangered North Atlantic right whale.

Has Iceland Exported Whale Products To The EU?
Investigations by WDCS and IFAW reveals that Iceland has been attempting to export whale products to the EU.

The Cove Wins An Oscar!
WDCS is excited to announce that The Cove received an Oscar Sunday evening as it was chosen for BEST DOCUMENTARY by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (The Academy)!

Humpbacks Get Stay Of Execution, But Commercial Whaling Deal Rolls On
Members of the IWC meeting in Florida concluded their meeting unable to sanction a demand for more humpback whales for Greenland, but did explore further details of a proposal to allow resumed commercial whaling. But where does the US stand on the deal?

2010 Marine Art Contest Underway
The annual Massachusetts Marine Educators marine art contest is now underway! The contest is free of charge and open to all students in grades K-12, with divisions for elementary, junior high, high school, computer graphics and scientific illustration.

Sea Life Arizona, WDCS And Bear Essential News Launch Poster Contest
Today, Sea Life Arizona, Bear Essential News and WDCS celebrate ocean conservation with launch of Poster Contest for local kids. Winners will receive special classroom presentation and tickets to aquarium’s grand opening slated for June.

Tragedy At Sea World Orlando
A veteran trainer at Sea World Orlando was killed this afternoon by an orca named Tilikum.

Dolphins In Focus At The 2010 AAAS Meeting In San Diego, February 18-22nd
The annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) commenced today in San Diego and will run through February 22nd. Dolphins feature high on the agenda.

WDCS Launches On-line Species Guide
WDCS has launched a comprehensive on-line guide to whales and dolphins. The species guide comes in three languages (English, German and Spanish) and provides interesting and easy to use insights into their habitats and behaviour.

Dolphin SMART To Expand In Florida
Help make the future launch of the Dolphin SMART program in central, southwest Florida a success by joining us at an upcoming informational session.

The Cove Nominated For “Best Documentary” Oscar
WDCS is excited to announce that The Cove has been nominated for BEST DOCUMENTARY by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (The Academy)!

How Can Historic Yankee Whaling Help Save Whales Today?
Join WDCS and the New Bedford Whaling Museum (NBWM) at our upcoming lecture series, Man and Whales: Changing Views through Time. Learn how changes in trade, fishing, and energy have changed our relationship with whales.

WDCS Takes Legal Action Against US Navy To Protect Endangered Northern Right Whales
WDCS has teamed with US-based conservation groups to challenge the U.S. Navy's decision to build its $100 million Undersea Warfare Training Range next to the only known calving ground for the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale.

WHO And FAO Discuss Health Risks To Consumers Of Cetacean Meat
For the first time, the World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations are holding an expert consultation on the health risks associated with consuming contaminated meat and blubber from whales and dolphins.

Oil Spill In Texas, What We Can Do
This past Saturday, a collision between an oil tanker and barge resulted in the release of 460,000 gallons of crude oil into the waterways of Port Arthur, Texas. Photo Credit: AP Photo/Houston Chronicle, Julio Cortez

Make This The Year You Green Your Life
WDCS has begun a year-long challenge to green your habits, your life, and your world. A series of blogs, once a week, give you five new things every week to work towards a safer world for all of us, our children and the animals we fight to protect.

Thankful In 2009
As we end one year and begin another, WDCS stops to reflect on a few things we are thankful for. Events and People talking steps toward a world in which cetaceans are safe, recovering and celebrated.

Top 9 Victories In 2009
This year, you helped us save more than 100,000 whales, dolphins, and porpoises in the North Atlantic... Thank you! Check out what we accomplished together

Are Whales And Dolphins The Great Apes Of The Oceans?
Almost twenty years ago WDCS produced a report called, simply, ‘Why Whales?’. This report explored the ethical, conservation and welfare arguments for protecting whales; it asked the question Why?

Corky - 40 Years Imprisoned. We Owe Her A Way Out!
Friday 11th December marks the 40th anniversary of a young female orca being taken from her family in the waters off British Columbia, Canada, to become a captive orca performing tricks to amuse people around the world. She was given the name CORKY.

Key West Dolphin SMART Training Held On December 7, 2024
WDCS partners held the Program’s third operator training in Key West as implementation of the Dolphin SMART program continues.

A Local Fundraiser Where You Can Do Your Christmas Shopping
Come meet WDCS's official Artist Ambassador, Theresa LaBreque; WDCS staff; and other honored whale biologist Dave Wiley from the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Saturday, December 12th from 3:00-7:00 at the Brewster Ladies Library.

First High Seas MPA Designated In Antarctica
The first high seas MPA in the Antarctic region has been declared in an area south of the South Orkney Islands. The MPA is situated in the northern Weddell Sea, east of the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula - a prime area for feeding humpback whales.

The Climate Change Emergency And Whales
Climate change is a significant and growing threat to whales, dolphins and porpoises. It is a threat that can only be tackled directly at an international level. From 7th to 18th December, world leaders will be gathering to discuss the issue.

The Cove Marches On: The Dominican Republic, The Academy Awards And Larry King!
Over the weekend, WDCS campaigner Courtney Vail joined Simon Hutchins from 'The Cove' at the movie's premiere at the 3rd Global Film Festival in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Slaughter Continues In Taiji
Around 30 pilot whales have been captured in a drive hunt in Taiji this week and reportedly await a tragic fate in the infamous cove highlighted in the acclaimed film from which it takes its name, The Cove http://www.thecovemovie.com/.

President Obama, Please Tell Japan That Whaling Is Obsolete!
This month, President Obama will be meeting with his Japanese counterpart for the first time. Please call on President Obama to raise the issue of whaling with Prime Minister Hatoyama.

Japan's Prime Minister Hates Eating Whale Meat
The Japanese press is reporting that the Japanese Prime Minister ‘hates whale meat’. He is apparently not alone. Demand for whale meat has fallen dramatically in Japan in recent years; prices have dropped by half, and thousands of tons of meat languish.

2nd Dolphin SMART Operator Recognized In Alabama
Bear Point Marina-based Skipper “J” Dolphin Cruises recently became the second nature tour business along the Alabama Gulf Coast to be accepted into the Dolphin SMART program.

Are Humpbacks Still Endangered?
The US National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is conducting a status review to determine if humpback whales should be removed from the Endangered Species List. While WDCS supports the review, we caution NMFS that all threats including climate change, w

Happy Halloween
Every holiday is a time to celebrate our oceans and the amazing life they support. Send us photos of your Halloween celebration with marine wildlife and we'll post them here. So be it a dolphin costume or a WDCS carved pumpkin, let's spread the word

South Park And Whaling
Its not the first time the satirical show South Park have addressed the issue of whale conservation, but the latest episode treats this subject with their usual direct in-your-face attitude.

Greenland Puts Off Humpback Vote
At the 61st annual meeting of the International Whaling Commission (IWC) in June 2009, a vote on Greenland’s proposal to increase its aboriginal subsistence whaling quota by ten humpback whales a year was deferred.

Singing For The Sea
WDCS is the global voice for whales, dolphins, porpoises and their environment. But on October 18, it was not the voice of WDCS, but the beautiful sounds of the sirens, the O Beautiful Gaia Singers, that rang out loudly for whales and our waters.

Help Us Win $50,000
Help us win $50,000! We just entered the Giving Challenge! Our organization can win up to $50,000 if we get the most people to donate. Please visit our cause on Facebook and get involved now!

WDCS Represented At The 18th Biennial Conference On The Biology Of Marine Mammals In Quebec City
WDCS is profiling some of its research and policy work at the 18th Society for Marine Mammalogy Biennial meeting currently being held in Quebec City, Canada from October 12-16th. The 18th Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals of the Society

WDCS Provides Testimony To Ocean Zoning Task Force
On September 24th, WDCS provided testimony to the Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force. Using the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale as an example, WDCS emphasized the need for considering cumulative impacts to migratory species.

Europe Moves To Address Threats To European Dolphins
On the18th September 2009 the 6th Meeting of the Parties (MOP) to the Agreement on the Conservation of Small Cetaceans of the Baltic, North East Atlantic, Irish and North Seas (ASCOBANS) ended in Bonn, Germany. WDCS reports from the meeting

WDCS Joins Groups To Expand Critical Habitat For The Endangered North Atlantic Right Whale
(Washington, DC -- Sept. 15, 2009) Today, conservation and animal welfare groups filed a formal request to expand protected habitat for the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale.

Australian Oil Spill Continues – The Impact On Whales And Dolphins Can Not Be Ignored
The leaking oil well in the Timor Sea is now a major environmental disaster, spanning at least 15,000km2 and threatening marine wildlife, including whales and dolphins.

WDCS Launches Whale SENSE
Whale SENSE is a new program promoting responsible whale viewing. Jack Hill of the Hyannis Whale Watcher said “We believe we have a commitment to make the trips safe, not only for our passengers, but also for the whales.

Anniversary Marks 39 Years For Lolita In Captivity
September 14th marks 39 years that Lolita, a female orca held at the Miami Seaquarium, has been kept in captivity. WDCS is asking you to contact the Miami Seaquarium!

Iceland - Stop Whaling Now
Iceland has killed more than 150 whales since May of 2009, including at least 93 endangered fin whales. We urgently need your help to stop this.

Dolphin Drive Hunts Resume In Taiji
Despite the international attention that The Cove has generated across the globe,the dolphin drives continue.  Media sources have reported that 100 bottlenose dolphins and 50 pilot whales were driven into Taiji's infamous cove yesterday.

WDCS Mourns The Loss Of Senator Edward M. Kennedy
WDCS grieves the passing of “Ted” Kennedy. Called “the gladiator for the poor”, his voice to protect the environment, the oceans and whales was also strong. Senator Kennedy helped secure funding to restore coastal habitats, improve water quality, and mo

Education Through Art
A local artist and WDCS supported is spreading WDCS's message through her art. Theresa LaBrecque, artist, educator, and good friend, is showing her collection on August 29th at Studio on Slough Road. WDCS's biologist will be attending the Whales and W

The Cove Opens In U.S. Theaters Today!
The Cove, an action-drama film documenting the dolphin drive hunts in Japan premieres in theaters in Los Angeles and New York today, July 31st. This rated PG-13 film will debut in U.S.theaters throughout the month of August. See www.thecovemovie.com

Follow Your Adoted Whale On Twitter
Want to know every time we see your adopted whale? Join Twitter and start following one of our nine highlighted humpbacks.

Dolphin Petting Pools Targeted: Petition For Rulemaking Filed With APHIS
Today, WDCS and a coalition of animal protection groups filed a citizen’s petition for rulemaking with APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service), the federal authority under the Department of Agriculture responsible for captive dolphin welfare.

The USA Must Stand Up For Humpbacks
At the recent International Whaling Commission (IWC) meeting the outgoing USA delegation supported a proposal for a new hunt of humpback whales by Greenlandic whalers. Please help us persuade the USA to change its stance.

New Whale Protection Legislation Before Congress
WDCS Supports the recently introduced International Whale Conservation and Protection Act currently seeking support in the US House of Representatives.

Europe: Whale Enemy No.1
Conservationists are outraged by the escalation of whaling and whale meat trade by European countries

Don't Take Me For Granted
Greenland wants to hunt the cousins of our American humpback whales - don't let them!

Help Stop Greenland Killing Humpbacks
Greenland is planning to make a request to the International Whaling Commission (IWC) to kill 10 humpback whales a year, starting in 2010. WDCS believes that the proposed hunt is unjustified and should be opposed by member governments of the IWC.

Protesting Whaling
Representatives from WDCS, Campaign Whale, EIA, IFAW and WSPA protest whaling and met with Icelandic Ambassador Sverrir Haukur Gunnlaugsson at the London Embassy today, as Icelandic whalers head out to sea in search of 250 whales to hunt.

Iceland Whale Hunt Imminent
According to local reports, the whaling vessel Johanna AR is to possibly set sail today, Tuesday, May 26th, out of Njardarvik harbour. Iceland has issued commercial whaling quotas for 100 minke whales and 150 endangered fin whales for the 2009 season.

George Mitchell Students Save Whales
WDCS shifted gears this week and headed west to George Mitchell Elementary in Bridgewater, Massachusetts. about Cetaceans. Little did we know that these students would be so knowledgeable that they actually would be teaching us something!

International Yacht Race Charts Course To Avoid Endangered Whales
Boston, 24th April 2009: After an exhausting journey of more than 4500 nautical miles of intense high sea racing, the vessels participating in the Volvo Ocean Race agreed to plot a course that reduces the risk of collision with whales.

NOAA Vessel Strikes Right Whale
“If an informed crew on a research vessel, with posted observers, can hit a right whale, anyone can” said WDCS Senior Biologist, Regina Asmutis-Silvia. “This is a call to all mariners transiting areas whales are known to inhabit to proceed with caution

Ocean Life Symposium Held In Eastern Caribbean
WDCS attended The Ocean Life Symposium sponsored by the Eastern Caribbean Coalition for Environmental Awareness (ECCEA) and the Pew Environment Group, in coordination with UNEP’s Caribbean Environment Program from March 23-25th on Dominica.

2009 Marine Education Conference
Three-day marine education conference April 24th to 26th, 2009 in Provincetown to exchange ideas and provide additional tools to naturalist/science educators, interns, volunteers, and those involved with whale watching or research in the Gulf of Maine

The World’s First Conference On Marine Protected Areas For Marine Mammals
Over 150 marine experts from 30 countries around the world will gather in Maui, Hawaii, March 30th to April 3rd to build plans for networks of protected areas, which will help conserve vulnerable species and the places on which they depend.

New PSA Highlights Illegal Feeding Of Wild Dolphins
WDCS welcomes the release of a new Public Service Announcement (PSA) aimed at raising awareness to the problem of feeding dolphins in the wild.

Korea Announces Its Future Whaling Intent
Whilst nations gathered in Rome to discuss a potential deal with Japan in an attempt to reduce Japanese so-called ‘scientific whaling’, Korea announced that if such a deal goes forward it would seek a quota and commence commercial whaling.

Is That Dolphin Really Pink?
For the past several weeks, a “pink” dolphin off the coast of Louisiana has received much attention thanks to an article by Caters News Agency in the UK Guardian.

How Can Right Whales Be Wrong???
South Carolina students have nominated North Atlantic Right Whales to become the official State Marine Mammal. So why are some in the State saying they are the wrong whale for South Carolina?

4th Operator Recognized Under Dolphin SMART
WDCS and Partners recognize newest tour operator to join Dolphin SMART Program. Sea Bear pledges to follow wildlife viewing guidelines and responsible advertising criteria.

Obama Reinstates Endangered Species Protection
March 3rd 2009 is good day for Endangered Species because it means protection is the same for them as it was on March 3rd 2008! On March 3rd, the Obama Administration also reinforced the Endangered Species Act.

Japan, Deceptions, And The Death Of The Whaling Ban
WDCS has released evidence that Japan has used misleading and inaccurate information in its attempts to lift the ban on commercial whaling. Take action with WDCS to stop the world's governments from falling for these deceptions.

Get Involved
It doesn’t matter who or where you are, everyone can do something to save whales and dolphins.

Shrouded By The Sea
An animal welfare problem of major proportions has been uncovered in a new report by WDCS, the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society. The report, Shrouded by the sea, reveals the shocking truth behind the entanglement of cetaceans in nets.

Iceland Announces Unprecedented New Whale Hunt
The Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society (WDCS) learned today that in his last days in office, outgoing Fisheries Minister Einar K. Gudfinsson has issued a whaling quota for 150 fin whales and 100 minke whales a year, to run from 2009 until 2013.

Dolphin Tour Operator Training In Key West
WDCS, in collaboration with partners of its Dolphin SMART program, launched the first set of lectures in its series to highlight dolphin research in Florida, and provide information to the interested public in Key West on January 12th.

Report Urges Congress To Enforce Marine Mammal Protections
WDCS commends Rep. Rahall and the House Natural Resources Committee for calling on the Government Accountability Office to assess the repeated failures of the Bush Administration to protect whales and dolphins, even when mandated to do so by U.S. law

North Atlantic Right Whale Seen In Azores
Recent sightings of North Atlantic right whales in previously unknown habitats is exciting because scientists still do not know where over half North Atlantic right whales migrate to during winter.

Happy New Year!
WDCS wishes you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year! Thank you for all of your support in 2008 and we look forward to another successful year of whale protection in 2009! Here's our Top Ten list for 2008!

Shrouded By The Sea - The Terrible Truth About Dolphins And Whales Caught In Fishing Gear
WDCS publishes Shrouded by the sea , a report revealing the shocking truth behind the entanglement of whales, dolphins and porpoises in fishing nets, estimated to kill more than 300,000 of these animals worldwide each year. The harrowing details of how w

Bush Administration Attacks Endangered Species Act
WDCS is saddened by the latest attack on the Endangered Species Act by the Bush Administration. On December 11th, the Department of Interior announced the passage of a rule to modify the requirements of the Endangered Species Act.

Right Whale Vessel Strike Protection!
We have some wonderful news! After years of diligent work by WDCS and support from our dedicated friends of the Whale Adoption Project like you – critically endangered Northern right whales are now protected by a rule to reduce vessel speed

Rome: Greater Protection Secured For Endangered Dolphin Species, But Habitats Remain Threatened
Several species of dolphin and one porpoise species have been awarded greater protection through the Convention of Migratory Species (CMS) at its 9th meeting of Parties in Rome.

CMS: A Call For Urgent Action
WDCS makes a call for urgent action for the marine mammals of the Arctic: CMS COP Rome December 1st In the afternoon of the opening day of the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Poznan, Poland, a call to mitigate climate change as a threat to

CMS COP9: WDCS Calls On Parties To Act!
From 1st to 5th December more than 100 Countries will meet in Rome for the 9th Conference of the Parties (CoP) of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS). The WDCS team will be at the meeting fighting for urgent action to be taken to protect whale

WDCS Calls For Action At UN Meeting
This week, WDCS's Chief Executive, Chris Butler Stroud, delivered the opening speech at a week-long meeting of the Convention of Migratory Species of Wild Animals.

Dolphin SMART Program Recognizes First Participant In Coastal Alabama
The Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society (WDCS) and its partners today recognized L.A. Watersports as the first charter operator in Alabama to be accepted into a new program designed to protect wild dolphins.

Japan’s Whalers Set Sail For Kill In Whale Sanctuary
The Japanese whaling fleet has set sail from the ports of Shimonoseki and Hiroshima, with the aim of killing over a thousand whales for so-called research purposes.

WDCS On The Whale Wars: Taking The Battle Beyond The Antarctic
While WDCS does not condone destruction of property, nor accept tactics that endanger lives, we empathize with the public's anger and frustration at the continued killing of whales decades after a ban was put in place to save these magnificent animals.

Southern Right Whale, From The Right Whale To Hunt To The Right Whale To Protect
As the racing yachts approach CapeTown, marking the end of the first leg of the Volvo Ocean Race, another wanderer of the sea is awaiting their arrival – the southern right whale. By Miguel Iñíguez and Jimena Belgrano

Four Dimensional Homes In The Sea
Whales need homes in the sea. This is what WDCS is saying as part of our Global Campaign for Marine Protected Areas. But what does that mean?

Lobster Harvesting That Protects Whales
Attention seafood lovers. When shopping or eating out, look for lobster with a green band whale tail symbol on its claw that says Massachusetts. The green band means the lobster was caught using traps linked to sinking groundline on the seabed.

When Whales And Dolphins Face Extinction
Nearly 25 percent of the world’s whales and dolphins are under critical threat, according to a 2008 IUCN (World Conservation Union) re-categorization of the status of whale and dolphin species globally.

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