Debunking Myths: The Truth About Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary
November 29, 2024
News
Debunking Myths: The Truth About Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary
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You may have noticed information being spread across social media in conjunction with a protest outside Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary (CCWS). While we respect activist groups’ right to express their views, we believe it’s essential to address some of the misinformation being spread. We urge our supporters to share the facts and avoid engaging with protesters directly.
Here, we clarify the claims being made:
Claim 1:
“CCWS is misleadingly named and exploits marine animals.”
Our Response:
CCWS provides a safe, enriched environment for animals based on ethical care standards and scientific evidence. Our name reflects our mission to offer sanctuary for these animals, ensuring their well-being is our top priority. Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary is a welfare-accredited institution under the Zoo and Aquarium Association (ZAA). We have received commendable mentions for our animal welfare business model. Additionally, independent studies by Isabella Clegg with the C-Well Assessment, specific to cetaceans, have confirmed our high standards.
If you want to learn more about animal welfare and ZAA Accreditation, visit: https://www.zooaquarium.org.au/public/Public/Animal-Welfare/Animal-welfare.aspx
Claim 2:
“The owners have forgotten these are sentient animals.”
Our Response:
We fully recognise the intelligence and welfare needs of the animals in our care. Our programs emphasise mental and physical enrichment, regularly assessed to maintain the highest standards of care. You can learn more about our enrichment programs here: https://coffscoastwildlifesanctuary.com.au/news/managing-the-welfare-of-the-animals-in-our-care-a-commitment-to-excellence/
Claim 3:
“There are no rescued dolphins; they were bred in chlorinated pools for profit.”
Our Response:
Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary took over management of the facility in 2023. The dolphins were born here under previous ownership, originating from rescued dolphins. These animals are legacy animals that will require our continued care. The Sanctuary does not breed dolphins. Our focus is on providing these animals with a comfortable and enriched life.
Read more about why the three dolphins in our care animals cannot be released: https://coffscoastwildlifesanctuary.com.au/news/setting-the-story-straight-about-sea-pen-feasibility/
Claim 4:
“Dolphins and seals perform circus-style tricks for tourists.”
Our Response:
The Sanctuary’s animal enrichment activities and training involves positive reinforcement and mental stimulation. Activities include cooperative care demonstrations (e.g., health checks) and natural behaviours like echolocation exercises. These practices enhance their physical and cognitive well-being.
Claim 5:
“Animals are forced to perform unnatural acts like spinning hula hoops.”
Our Response:
No animal in our care is forced to do anything. We use positive reinforcement to train a variety of behaviours, designed to engage their cognitive functions and provide enrichment.
Claim 6:
“Noisy events cause stress for captive marine life.”
Our Response:
We closely monitor animal behaviour and welfare during all activities at the Sanctuary. Animals always have the option to leave any situation at their will. Evening functions are carefully regulated, and our experienced team ensures compliance with all guidelines, including noise levels.
Claim 7:
“Zippy the dolphin has tumors and is forced to perform.”
Our Response:
Zippy, at 39 years old, has papilloma virus, which is common and non-debilitating. He receives ongoing veterinary care, similar to the treatment shown on Bondi Vet. His condition does not prevent him from enjoying daily activities.
Claim 8:
“A baby dolphin named Ji died here.”
Our Response:
This reported incident occurred before Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary ownership and is not relevant to our current operations or standards of care.
Claim 9:
“The pool is smaller than legal standards.”
Our Response:
The original Discovery habitat was built in the 1970s, prior to when standards for exhibited animals existed. However, the CCWS facility, which now includes an adjoining second pool which the dolphins in our care move between at their discretion. To the required standards of the Department of Primary Industries, the Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary facilities are suitable to house up to five dolphins, however we have three in our care.
We are committed to transparency and ethical care. Thank you for supporting CCWS and helping to spread the truth about our Sanctuary and the work that we do.
We encourage you to come and experience our animal welfare first-hand. Visit us, and see for yourself how our experienced, learned and dedicated team are caring for and enriching the animals in our care each day.
