Eight dolphins from Marineland d'Antibes were transferred to a marine zoo in Malaga, Spain, during the night of July 22 to July 23 [1], [2].
The move is significant because it occurs during the closure and evacuation of cetaceans from the French facility, a process that has drawn intense scrutiny from animal welfare organizations.
Of the 12 dolphins housed at Marineland d'Antibes, eight were relocated in this overnight operation [1], [2]. The animals were transported from Antibes, France, to the destination city of Malaga [3], [4].
Animal-rights associations have reacted with hostility to the transfer. Some activists described the relocation as "une énorme trahison" — a huge betrayal [5]. The operation was carried out despite ongoing actions by associations seeking different outcomes for the animals [6].
A spokesperson for one association said the move was "Un scandale d’État," or a state scandal [6]. The transfer is part of a broader effort to evacuate the park's cetaceans as the site closes its doors [2].
Reports indicate the animals were moved by plane to reach the Spanish facility [7]. This specific operation has been described as one that "suscite des critiques de la part d'associations de défense des animaux," which arouses criticism from animal defense associations [2].
“« une énorme trahison »”
The transfer of these dolphins from France to Spain underscores a recurring conflict between commercial marine parks and animal rights advocates. While the facility is closing, the decision to move the animals to another zoo rather than a sanctuary reflects the ongoing legal and logistical challenges of relocating large cetaceans from captivity.
