The fate of two killer whales, Wikie and her son Keijo, remains uncertain as Marineland, a marine zoo in France, is set to permanently close on January 5, 2024. This closure comes in light of new animal welfare laws aimed at improving the conditions for marine mammals in captivity. The decision has raised significant concerns about the future of these animals, who have spent their entire lives in captivity and are now facing an uncertain transition.
In 2010, the issue of captive orcas gained international attention when Tilikum, an orca at SeaWorld Orlando, killed trainer Dawn Brancheau following a show. This incident sparked widespread debate and led to the release of the documentary "Blackfish," which detailed Tilikum's life and his involvement in the deaths of two other people. The documentary served as a catalyst for change in public perception regarding marine animals held in captivity.
At Marineland, the primary attractions have been shows featuring killer whales and dolphins, which attract 90% of the park's visitors. However, with the impending closure, the future of Wikie, age 23, and her 11-year-old son Keijo remains in limbo. The French government recently blocked a deal that would have sent them to a marine zoo in Japan due to concerns over animal welfare.
The average lifespan of male killer whales is around 30 years, while females can live up to 50 years, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The proposed Whale Sanctuary Project (WSP) aims to establish a facility in eastern Canada to house Wikie and Keijo. However, this initiative would require a commitment from the French government to facilitate their relocation.
Hanne Strager, a marine mammal expert, emphasized the challenges these whales would face if released into the wild. "It's a bit like taking your dog out of the house and sending him into the woods to live freely as a wolf," she stated. Strager further noted that these whales have formed strong social bonds with their trainers and depend on humans for food, care, and social interaction. "Those whales, that have spent their entire lives in captivity, their closest relationship is with humans," she explained.
In contrast, the story of Keiko, the orca from the 1993 movie "Free Willy," illustrates a different narrative. Rescued from captivity in 1996, Keiko was relocated to a bay in Iceland in 1998, where he relearned survival skills before his eventual release. This example raises questions about whether Wikie and Keijo could undergo similar rehabilitation.
Naomi Rose, a marine mammal scientist, remarked on the impact of "Blackfish," saying it was "more than a hit – it was a phenomenon." She believes it significantly altered societal perceptions regarding captive cetaceans. "I am convinced it pushed western society past the tipping point on the subject of captive cetaceans," Rose added.
While there are discussions about potential alternatives for Wikie and Keijo, releasing them into the wild is considered unsuitable due to their upbringing in captivity. Strager highlighted that killer whales are highly social animals that depend on established social bonds with their trainers. "They depend on humans and that is the only thing they know," she stated.
The Whale Sanctuary Project envisions life for Wikie and Keijo that closely resembles what they would have experienced growing up in the ocean. The sanctuary would aim to provide a natural environment that caters to their social needs while allowing for rehabilitation.
Marineland has been operational since 1970 when it was founded by Count Roland de la Poype. As part of its closure process, the facility plans to relocate over 4,000 animals. The closure of Marineland reflects a broader shift in public sentiment towards animal welfare and the ethics of keeping marine mammals in captivity.
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