Global Humane Society has awarded Dr. Kathleen Dudzinski, Founder and Director of the Dolphin Communication Project with the 2025 Wolfgang Kiessling International Prize for Species Conservation. This award was created in honor of Wolfgang F. Kiessling, the founder of Loro Parque and a global leader in conservation.
Global Humane Society’s Wolfgang Kiessling International Prize for Species Conservation recognizes leading conservation scientists who are making significant changes in the fields of conservation and species preservation.
Dr. Dudzinski is the Director and Founder of the Dolphin Communication Project and Managing Editor of Aquatic Mammals journal. Her comparative research has helped bridge understanding between wild and captive cetacean behavior, informing both science and conservation efforts.
“Dr. Kathleen Dudzinski’s groundbreaking work has deepened our understanding of dolphin communication and inspired global conservation action,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President & CEO, Global Humane Society. “Her dedication over three decades exemplifies the very spirit of this award, showing how science, education, and compassion can come together to protect species and preserve our shared planet.”
“Across my 30-year career studying dolphin communication and behavior, I have funneled research results into education programs with a strong conservation message,” said Dr. Dudzinski. “Joining the notable roster of previous Kiessling Prize recipients offers a respected global platform to exponentially expand my reach. The prize will help me share the subtle intricacies of dolphin social lives, their subtle contacts, postures and actions, and inform and encourage a conservation lifestyle among the masses, especially the younger generations so keen to protect our ocean planet.”
With over 30 years of fieldwork in The Bahamas, Japan, Belize, Honduras, and more, Dr. Dudzinski is an expert in cetacean social behavior and advocates for marine conservation through ecotourism, education, and international outreach. She also developed and deployed cutting-edge underwater video-acoustic systems that help scientists learn more about cetaceans.
“The Wolfgang Kiessling International Prize for Species Conservation celebrates the efforts of individuals who dedicate their lives to protecting biodiversity,” said Wolfgang Kiessling. “In an era when so many species are under threat, it is crucial to acknowledge and support the individuals and organisations that are making a tangible impact on their preservation. Wildlife conservation is a collective effort, and this prize aims to highlight the efforts of those who are leading the way.”
Global Humane Society received an overwhelming response to this year’s call for applications, receiving submissions from qualified candidates representing more than 30 countries. To help recognize the far-reaching impacts of these candidates, Global Humane Society has named five finalists, recognizing their tremendous contributions to species conservation.
The following conservation leaders were selected as the finalists for the 2025 Wolfgang Kiessling International Prize for Species Conservation:
• Dr. Danté Fenolio, Vice President of the Center for Conservation & Research at the San Antonio Zoo
• Dr. Yadvendradev V. Jhala, Senior Scientist with the Indian National Science Academy at India’s National Centre for Biological Science
• Prof. Jonah Henri Ratsimbazafy, President of the Madagascar Primate Research Group
• Dr. Hilde Vanleeuwe, CEO and Research Associate of WilderThings in Kenya
