May 4, 2025 · Learn why a killer whale's dorsal fin collapses or flops over when in captivity and whether this happens in whales — or orcas — that live in the wild.

May 9, 2025 · While a collapsed dorsal fin does occur in wild killer whales, it is uncommon. Most captive orcas have a bent dorsal fin and the reasons why affect their welfare.

Although dorsal fin collapse is not unique to captivity, it is far more common in confinement. In the wild, the condition varies from population to population.

Nov 7, 2025 · The collapsed dorsal fin observed in many captive killer whales is a powerful indicator of compromised health and welfare, directly linked to the unnatural conditions of …

Contrary to popular belief, the bending of dorsal fins in orcas has been observed in both wild and captive populations. There’s still a lot of debate as to why this happens, but biologists think …

At least 160 orcas have died in captivity, even more if stillbirths are counted. However even among the survivors, health issues are abound. Most notably are the dorsal fin collapse in …

Learn about orca dorsal fin collapse in captivity vs. the wild—causes, effects, and why it highlights animal welfare concerns in marine parks.

Dec 5, 2024 · Though drooping dorsal fins are occasionally seen in wild orcas, it does seem more common among captive animals – especially the longer-finned males. It’s not entirely clear why.

Dorsal fin collapse – orcas kept in tanks spend most of their time swimming in endless circles, causing their tall dorsal fins to collapse to one side. Dorsal fin collapse happens to 1% of wild …

Orcas in captivity may develop physical pathologies, such as the dorsal fin collapse seen in 80–90% of captive males. The captive environment bears little resemblance to their wild …