Netherlands plans to phase out captive dolphins with breeding ban

Netherlands plans to phase out captive dolphins with breeding ban

Posted on 10/14/2026, 12:31 PM AST | Updated on 10/14/2026, 12:31 PM AST

HARDERWIJK — The Dutch government plans to phase out keeping dolphins in captivity. A formal breeding ban will take effect in two years, while imports will be restricted. There is currently no decision to close the Dolfinarium.

State Secretary Erkens says pools cannot meet dolphins’ natural needs to dive deeply and swim long distances. He considers an immediate ban undesirable because the Dolfinarium’s 22 dolphins could not survive in the wild.

The Dolfinarium opposes the decision and wants talks with Erkens. It warns that separating males and females or using long-term contraception could affect the animals’ social behavior and health.