SeaWorld Ends Orca Whale Program

A few years ago we went to SeaWorld and, yes we attended the performance of the Orcas. The whales are so majestic. I admit I enjoyed the show, but the animal lover in me did feel guilty taking joy from these captive creatures.

SeaWorld yesterday (March 17) announced that there will be no more whales captured and they will end their breeding program.

According to their announcement at their website:

SeaWorld has been listening and we’re changing. 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 guest to take action to protect wild animals and wild places.

The Orcas currently at SeaWorld will not be released into the ocean. However, they will not be confined to sea cages. According to SeaWorld:

...they will live long and healthy lives under love and care of our dedicated veterinary and other trained specialists where they can inspire this and future generations to be conservationists around the world through natural presentations that are fun, exiting and will educate guests about the plight of orcas in the wild.