SeaWorld to halt killer whale shows and end breeding programme

SeaWorld is to end its killer whale breeding programme and will phase out theatrical shows featuring the animals. The company, which has faced criticism over its treatment of captive marine animals, said the orcas in its care would be the last generation at its 12 parks. Joel Manby, president and chief executive of SeaWorld Entertainment, said: "As society’s understanding of orcas continues to change, SeaWorld is changing with it. By making this the last generation of orcas in our care and reimagining how guests will encounter these beautiful animals, we are fulfilling our mission of providing visitors to our parks with experiences that matter.“

SeaWorld has introduced more than 400 million guests to orcas, and we are proud of our part in contributing to the human understanding of these animals

SeaWorld president Joel Manby

The Orlando-based company has seen dwindling attendances and protests from animal rights activists calling for it to end killer whale shows. In Thursday’s announcement, it revealed it had entered into a partnership with the Humane Society and said it would replace the shows with "new, inspiring natural orca encounters”. Conservationists welcomed the move, although some want those killer whales in captivity to be set free. “SeaWorld’s commitment to end breeding of orcas is a long-held goal of many animal advocacy organizations, and we commend the company for making this game-changing commitment,” said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of the Humane Society.

SeaWorld must open its tanks to the oceans to allow the orcas it now holds captive to have some semblance of a life outside these prison tanks

PETA spokeswoman Colleen O'Brien

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