How Can We Protect Dolphins?

Dolphins are marine mammals that vary in size, color and species. They can be found in numerous locations worldwide, normally in shallow seas. Many organizations work hard teaching people how to protect dolphins, with one of the most important lessons taught being that wild dolphins and humans should not interact. By following easy steps, almost anyone can help protect dolphins.

Things You'll Need

  • Volunteer time
  • Money
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prevent people from feeding wild dolphins. When wild dolphins are fed, they will stop hunting and instead will look or beg for food from humans. Dolphins should not eat much of the food that people hand out, such as hot dogs, pretzels and candy, because it can be harmful to their health. Dolphins that rely on handouts will stop teaching their young how to forage for food and instead will compete with young dolphins for food handouts from humans. This can lead to the death of young dolphins that are never properly taught how to hunt.

    • 2

      Stop any interaction with wild dolphins from happening. Swimming, feeding, chasing or harassing wild dolphins is against the law and interaction with humans will change a dolphin's behavior. Dolphins will lose their natural wariness they have of humans, which makes them more prone to accidents and attacks from other animals. Dolphins that are not scared of humans often get injured by boats and get caught in fishing lines. Dolphins that are frustrated will also bite or attack humans.

    • 3

      Participate in environmentally safe practices. Helping the environment is one of the best ways to ensure that dolphin habitats are not destroyed. The more people who recycle, use proper water management techniques and use few man-made chemicals will help protect the environment. Volunteer for beach and water conservation projects to help the environment and also teach people about the importance of protecting the environment.

    • 4

      Buy dolphin-safe food products only. Purchase food products that do not harm dolphins or the habitats of dolphins. Seafood Watch is a useful resource to learn about what ocean products are good for you and good for the environment too.

    • 5

      Donate money and time to organizations created to help dolphins. Organizations like the Dolphin Project are nonprofit organizations that help to save dolphins and teach people different ways they can help save dolphins. Research different organizations to find the one that you are comfortable donating to.