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Ethics - what WDCS is about

humpback whale © Duncan MurrellWDCS is well known around the world for its strong position on conservation issues and for its dedication to protecting cetacean species and populations in all the places and spaces that they call home. All WDCS work is built on a strong commitment to high ethical standards and we require the same commitment from the researchers that we fund.

In addition to demanding best research practice from our researchers, WDCS also works toward improving the welfare of all cetaceans and fostering their protection; as individuals, communities and populations, as well as species.

As guardians of the interests of these unique beings we work towards the long-term protection of their natural environments, towards ensuring they have the freedom to express their natural behaviours and, ultimately, to broadening the mantle of legal protection to ensure that cetaceans are recognised, and protected, as individuals.

Humpback whale © Duncan MurrellAre 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?
Sperm whale © Hal WhiteheadCetacean Culture: The Way Whales Do Things
One of the primary divisions between humans and the rest of life on Earth is culture. Or is it? Whale scientists have long concluded that culture is alive beneath the waves as Hal Whitehead explains.
Baiji © Hal SatoSaving Species Needs A Shift In Values
Playing the numbers game is not good enough when it comes to identifying what species are at risk from extinction, says Nicolas Entrup.
Bolivian river dolphinTrapped River Dolphins In Bolivia – Latest News
WDCS is currently involved in emergency rescue plans to free a small group of Bolivian river dolphins. Fortunately, the strange cold weather in recent weeks has bought the dolphins some time. Read our update on the rescue plans.