Conservation

WDCS is working in all the world’s oceans to research and learn more about whales and dolphins, to reduce threats to their existence, and to make a home for them in the sea through the establishment of marine protected areas (MPAs).

Whales and dolphins face a huge range of threats. Half of the ten great whale species that were the targets of whalers are “endangered”. Nearly a quarter of the world’s species are known to be threatened with extinction. A question mark hangs over many others due to the lack of information about their populations.

In 2006, the world suffered the first loss of a dolphin due to human impacts, when the Yangzte River dolphin, or baiji, was found to be extinct. If we do not act now, many other populations will vanish.

Here you can learn more about research into whales and dolphins, the threats facing the various species, how to protect their homes and how to help ensure their safety when you encounter them in the wild.

Threats to whales and dolphins
Safe havens for whales and dolphins
Watching whales and dolphins
Uncovering the lives of whales and dolphins
The Sailing Community and Whales

Please remember to sign our Global Petition for Marine Protected Areas.