When most people hear “Miami Dolphins,” they think football. But at Dolphin Life — the Florida Keys nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of dolphins and whales — the name brings to mind four very special individuals: Aries, Onyx, Ripley and Zo.
On Dec. 8, the Dolphin Life team rehomed these four bottlenose dolphins from the Miami Seaquarium. Following the Seaquarium’s closure, all 16 of its dolphins required safe new homes. They were born at the facility and had spent their entire lives within the same familiar habitats and social group — the oldest now 32 years old.
Understanding the stress these animals could face during relocation, and the real risk of them being separated into unfamiliar social groupings, Dolphin Life’s leadership opened the doors to any grouping in need.
By welcoming this bonded bachelor pod, Dolphin Life ensured that these four lifelong companions could remain together, prioritizing their wellbeing, stability and relationships.
The dolphins safely completed their transport to Dolphin Life. Early signs are positive: all four are eating enthusiastically, interacting with trainers, exploring their environment and even greeting their new neighbors through the fencelines.
Their arrival represents a step forward in Dolphin Life’s mission to create a lifestyle that blends rescue-focused animal care with storytelling, community engagement and experiences for people of all ages.
“Dolphin Life was built to be a safe harbor for dolphins in need and a place where people can fall in love with the ocean all over again,” said Nancy Cooper, Dolphin Life president. “Welcoming Aries, Onyx, Ripley and Zo into our family is a moment of joy, responsibility, and deep gratitude. We are honored to give them the stability, social support and purpose-filled home they deserve.”
Dolphin Life continues to expand its footprint as a hub for marine mammal welfare in the Florida Keys — anchored by its connected worlds:
● Dolphin Life Key Largo – A playful, immersive resident dolphin lagoon.
● Dolphin Life Hospital (Islamorada) – The region’s only dolphin and whale rescue/rehab center.
● Dolphin Life Store – A lifestyle brand supporting rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming efforts.
Dolphin Life extends heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated team who loved and cared for these dolphins for years.
“We recognize how emotional a move like this can be,” said Hunter Kinney, head Dolphin Life coach. “We are grateful to the individuals who helped raise these dolphins and who supported them through every step of this transition. Their care made it possible for Aries, Onyx, Ripley, and Zo to arrive healthy, curious and ready to take on their next chapter.”
Guests can already visit the four dolphins at Dolphin Life Key Largo. While their first weeks will focus on acclimating, bonding, and establishing routines, Dolphin Life anticipates they will be incorporated into programming later in the season.
“They’ll eventually begin learning how to participate in our guest programs — but always at their own pace,” Kinney said. “For dolphins, positive interaction and play are an important part of good welfare. When done thoughtfully, these moments with guests become enriching, stimulating, and genuinely fun for the animals.”
More information is at dolphinlife.org.
