About WDCS

WDCS, the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society, is the world's most active charity (Registered No. 1014705) dedicated to the conservation and welfare of all whales, dolphins and porpoises (also known as cetaceans).

Established in 1987, WDCS is staffed by over 70 people, along with many volunteers, located in its office in Argentina, Australia, Austria, Germany, the UK and the US. This team of people is dedicated and determined to do their best for the animals and proud of the fact that WDCS's operating costs are kept to a minimum. The money raised is spent on urgent conservation, research and education projects that really do make a difference to the daily lives and long-term security of thousands of whales, dolphins and porpoises around the world.

Our work is divided into three main areas:

Stop

Our shared purpose and compassion defends these remarkable animals against many dangers - whaling, dolphin hunts, fisheries bycatch, captivity, chemical and noise pollution, climate change and ship strikes. We bring individuals and groups together to create strong local, national and international campaigns to stop these threats. Across the globe, we engage with international conventions, national governments, other conservation organisations and local communities.

Behind the scenes, our expertise, advice and legal, scientific and ethical arguments arm governments and decision-makers worldwide with the knowledge they need to protect whales and dolphins. Vital investigations exposing threats and abuses of regulations enable us to challenge governments and businesses which fail to deliver on their promises. Harnessing the shared passion, determination and resolve of individuals around the world, we create pressure to bring about change.

Protect

We recognise the needs of individual animals, as well as groups of whales and dolphins. Working with local communities, we defend the animals at risk and the places and conditions they need to survive; the places they call home.
Our scientific research and conservation initiatives get to the core of key issues, bringing greater understanding and practical solutions. This year alone we are funding 32 conservation and science projects, spanning 25 countries.

On an international scale, determination and diplomacy creates agreements between governments which can address multiple threats and protect species across their entire ranges. ‘Action Plans’ to address the threats ensure these agreements make a real difference. We direct supporters’ contributions straight to the heart of vital research, conservation, lobbying and negotiation, creating a safer future for whales and dolphins and a sustainable future for all of us who share the ocean.

Connect

Across the world, our supporters are coming together to create an international community of passionate protectors for whales and dolphins. Through the media, events, exhibitions, visitor centres, websites and more, we spread the word about the need to protect these incredible animals. And with offices worldwide and an international network of consultants and projects our reach is truly global. Locally, education and awareness-raising initiatives range from talking to school children to training educators and whale-watch operators.

Always at the centre of our efforts are the whales and dolphins. We let the magic of meeting these vulnerable animals in their natural environment speak for itself - our own whale-watching trips lead the way in responsible encounters. You make us what we are. It is only through our shared passion for whales and dolphins that we can truly make a difference – thank you.