Mission Statement
The Wild Dolphin Project is a non-profit scientific research organization that studies and reports on a specific pod of free ranging Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis). Since 1985, Denise Herzing has been studying dolphin communication in the wild. Objectives of this long-term, non-invasive field research on wild dolphins are to gather information on the natural history of these dolphins, including dolphin behaviors, social structure, dolphin communication, and habitat; and to report what we have learned to the scientific community and the general public.

Spanning over three decades The Wild Dolphin Project is the longest running underwater dolphin research project in the world. With our underwater focus on observing and recording behavior and sound, we are determined to "Crack the Code" of dolphin communication.
Learn More
Whether you are looking to participate onboard R/V Stenella or just stay updated on the project, our research, and upcoming events, a WDP membership will benefit you.
Become a Member
There are several ways to participate with The Wild Dolphin Project and help our work: Bahama Field Research, Florida Field Research, or Student Internships.
Learn moreMedia Coverage
In the Field
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10 Feb
New Research: Spotted Dolphins Riskier When Fighting Other Species
Read moreDespite their friendly appearance, dolphins aren’t just cute and cuddly. They are wild animals that engage in aggressive behaviors, just like any other animal. Since
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18 Dec
2020 Field Season: November
Read moreA Quick Trip Over Thanksgiving! This year has been quite a challenge, and we thought our data collection was going to be limited to the
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29 Nov
Expanding in Florida
Read moreWe study the dolphins at our longterm study site in the Bahamas during the summer months. That’s when weather and working conditions are best. During
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05 Aug
2020 Field Season: Trip 2
Read moreTrip #2 & maybe our last for the 2020 Field Season… The 2020 Field Season is proving to be an interesting and frustrating one. Due
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23 Jul
2020 Field Season: Trip 1
Read moreAs I am sure everyone is experiencing the impact of COVID-19 in some capacity, we are experiencing the same here at WDP. This pandemic has