The Resilience of NEMO Dolphinarium in Wartime Odesa

The Resilience of NEMO Dolphinarium Amidst Conflict

The NEMO dolphinarium in Odesa has become a beacon of hope and joy, regularly welcoming visitors eager to witness the mesmerizing performances of its dolphins. Families, both children and adults, travel from various corners of Ukraine to experience the enchanting shows. These intelligent creatures not only entertain but also seem to be aware of their audience’s presence.

According to one of the trainers, dolphins possess an acute sensitivity to their environment. They can detect the subtle vibrations of the world around them, including the unsettling manifestations of war. “When there is an explosion nearby, they don’t just react; they feel the vibrations. Sometimes, they choose to lie down on the bottom of their pools, waiting for the noise to subside,” explained a trainer, highlighting the dolphins’ unique perception.

In anticipation of potential emergencies, the dolphinarium staff has devised a meticulous evacuation plan for the animals. Until recently, some dolphins were housed in Kharkiv, a city that faced frequent missile strikes. “To ensure their safety, we constructed mobile pools that were placed in a large truck. The dolphins traveled alongside their trainers, individuals they have grown accustomed to,” shared Mariana, a dedicated worker at the center.

The keepers have been diligently preparing for this transition for several weeks, navigating the complexities of operating an attraction in a wartime environment. The ongoing conflict has led to frequent power outages, which in turn affect the pool’s temperature—an essential factor for the dolphins’ wellbeing. Additionally, some trainers have bravely taken up arms and gone to the front lines, further straining the resources available.

With air raid alerts occurring regularly, many performances are cut short, with only a few reaching their conclusion. Moreover, the dolphins require a diverse diet to thrive, which has become increasingly challenging to source under the current circumstances. “Each dolphin consumes 13 different types of fish daily,” noted Vladimir, another dedicated worker at the NEMO dolphinarium, emphasizing the logistical hurdles they face.

Despite the myriad of challenges, the dolphinarium opens its doors every day, showcasing the resilience of both the staff and the animals. Their determination to continue providing joy and wonder stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of life even amid adversity.