Capture of live cetaceans are supposedly made for educational purposes but in reality, the captured cetaceans are meant for zoos, dolphinariums, scientific and military programmes, even casinos and luxury hotels.
Since it is presently impossible to keep large cetaceans in captivity, this threat applies only to small cetaceans, especially dolphins, beluga whales and killer whales.
It is difficult to know the exact role that sampling plays in the decline of population of the small cetaceans. However, it is reasonable to assume that given the number of cetaceans captured, these samples certainly have a significant impact.
Although the number of animals taken may seem low, the few studies that exist on this subject show that these samples may have a significant impact on some local people who already face other threats (pollution, bycatches, etc.) and for various reasons. First of all because it often happens that several animals die during the capture process. Secondly, because the animals in question are often reproductive females, which may affect the survival of the group. And finally, because cetaceans are animals whose social nature is predominant and that the absence of some individuals may threaten the entire group. In fact, social cohesion is essential for hunting, protecting against predators and educating the young by the mother.
It goes without saying that capture also has an impact on the welfare of cetaceans.