In addition, the significant increase in the size of the facility will allow us to broaden the scope of our work. Currently, the museum's stranding center does not have adequate space to provide long-term care for marine animals. The center will include a variety of animals in a large coastal ocean habitat including bottlenose dolphins, seals, fish and shore birds. We believe that institutions such as zoos and aquariums enhance the experience of seeing live animals through the use of natural and interactive exhibits, programs, publications and other learning tools. These unique resources instill in visitors an awareness of ecological and conservation issues, and build respect for these animals and their environment.
Most people begin to care in an active way only after they have seen an animal up-close.
Yes, dolphins do very well in marine mammal facilities. They live in stimulating environments, eat high-quality diets, receive excellent medical care and are free from predators, parasites and pollution. Dolphins at these facilities form social groups, breed successfully, interact and exhibit many, if not all, of the same behaviors we see out in the wild. No dolphins will be collected from the wild. The museum will acquire dolphins from other institutions or from rehabilitative facilities that have animals that cannot be released.