In a significant development for marine wildlife, the Beauval Zoo has confirmed plans to construct a new habitat for dolphins currently residing at Marineland. This ambitious project is set to cost around €25 million and aims to provide a better environment for the dolphins.
Project Overview
The announcement came from Mathieu Lefèvre, the French Minister of Ecological Transition, during a visit to Beauval Zoo. The project intends to create a suitable home for the dolphins, with construction slated to begin in February 2026.
New Dolphin Habitat Details
- Completion Date: March 2027
- Construction Duration: One year
- Total Budget: €25 million
- Number of Basins: Seven
- Basin Depth: Ranging from 2 to 10 meters
- Lagoon Area: Three large lagoons covering 2.5 hectares
These enhancements at the Beauval Zoo are designed to comply with the 2021 law concerning the captivity of cetaceans, which prohibits certain practices involving the animals. Lefèvre emphasized the importance of ensuring the well-being of marine life in captivity.
Current Situation at Marineland
While the dolphins are expected to move to Beauval Zoo, a similar plan for the orcas at Marineland has yet to be established. Ongoing discussions are being held to determine the best course of action for their relocation.
State Support and Future Plans
Although the French government supports the project, it will not provide financial backing. Rodolphe Delord, director of Beauval Zoo, expressed willingness to transfer the project to another facility if necessary. However, he noted the need for space, proper permissions, and expertise to manage the dolphins effectively.
The new habitat will accommodate dolphins from around the globe, but Marineland’s residents will require a definitive agreement for their transfer. The move represents a crucial step towards improving conditions for these intelligent and social marine mammals.
