ILLENIUM's Mexican destination festival, Ember Shores, has announced efforts to investigate and close the controversial dolphinarium present at its host venue, Barceló Riviera Maya.
The festival released a statement on social media this week following allegations of mistreatment and the recent deaths of two dolphins held in the facility. After investigating the matter internally, Ember Shores said the dolphinarium is not owned by Barceló Riviera Maya but rather by a third-party organization.
Organizers are now working closely with the resort to shut down the facility, which is the smallest dolphinarium in Mexico, according to local reports.
"We would like to acknowledge the concerns raised for the dolphin facility at Barceló Riviera Maya," Ember Shores organizers said on X. "After our initial investigation, we can confirm that the resort does not own the facility and that it is operated by a third-party organization. However, we are working closely with the resort to have the facility shut down, in alignment with our values and commitment to animal welfare."
Activists and animal welfare groups have denounced the facility after two dolphins, Alex and Pluto, died as a result of improper care in the last 12 months, The Yucatan Times reported. They were underscored by claims of inhumane conditions, citing inadequate space, poor environmental stimulation and psychological distress inflicted on the animals. The controversy has sparked protests across Mexico, Spain and the UK.
The Mexican Federal Environmental Protection Agency is now reportedly investigating the facility.
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