SeaWorld to End Breeding Program for Killer Whales

[In_The_Wind]

SeaWorld announced Thursday it will end its killer whale breeding programs and take a "new direction" amid changing social attitudes.

The company said the 24 orcas it currently has in three parks would be SeaWorld's last generation, a long awaited move following intense criticism from animal-rights campaigners over keeping the whales in captivity.

"SeaWorld has been listening and we're changing," the company said in a statement. "Society is changing and we're changing with it. SeaWorld is finding new ways to continue to deliver on our purpose to inspire all our guests to take action to protect wild animals and wild places."

Joel Manby, president and CEO of SeaWorld, wrote in an op-ed article in the Los Angeles Times that its existing whales would remain in captivity because setting them free in the wild was "not a wise option."

"Most of our orcas were born at SeaWorld, and those that were born in the wild have been in our parks for the majority of their lives," he wrote. "If we release them into the ocean, they will likely die."


http://www.nbcnews.com/business/business-news/seaworld-end-breeding-program-orca-whales-n540646

Published on May 26, 2015
These are the facts about SeaWorld that activists don't want you to see. Watch this video as trainers, veterinarians and other zoological professionals set the record straight.

[ScreamingMeemie]

1. K & R

I can't see returning the captive whales (most born into captivity) as viable, but I am glad they are ending the practice of breeding. I do think Sea World has done a ton in the way of saving and rehabbing marine life, and I'm glad they've made this decision.

[In_The_Wind]

2. Sea World was one of the places I've visited over the years. I'm glad they are changing.

[ScreamingMeemie]

3. My daughter lives in Kissimmee (works at Universal)

and often goes to Sea World. She loves it there and is amazed by their animal rehab program. For those who are interested in the health of Tilikum, he is interacting with park guests and trainers and they let him do what he wants now, basically.

[In_The_Wind]

4. I'm glad she is happy there. I would have loved to live and work in Kissimmee.

Months ago I recorded the movie Blackfish but I haven't had the heart to watch it ... until now.