Orca Whales in Captivity

 Calista Honick

 Orca Whales in Captivity

https://us.whales.org/our-4-goals/end-captivity/?gclid=Cj0KCQiA8vSOBhCkARIsAGdp6RTiT2wNXgJf9lOQb_nbYgh-PApjCtWjxPTcXWuX6erOj-6N6udWX40aAsidEALw_wcB
Companies that keep orca whales in captivity create an unnatural environment for the animals. Because the ocean differs so greatly from giant glass windows that limit the whales, this ultimately affects the animals' behavior. Such a giant disruption to their way of living can result in aggression towards trainers and other whales. However, this behavior is warranted because of the significant reduction to their area for swimming, number of interactions with other whales, and the loss of their family through the capturing process. 

https://whalesanctuaryproject.org/whales/tilikum-the-whale-who-rebelled/

Tilikum

Tilikum was an orca whale that was captured in 1983 and presented by multiple companies. This whale is known for three different attacks against trainers while one resulted in the unfortunate death of Dawn Brancheau. SeaWorld publicized this aggressive behavior as an accident by Tilikum trying to play with the trainer, but the hostile behavior can be clearly explained by the intense restrictions put on the orca whale. Living in an environment so dissimilar from the freedom of the ocean can lead to frustration which is why Tilikum's actions should be expected as a natural response.

https://www.dolphinproject.com/resources/about-dolphins/about-orcas/orcas-in-captivity/

The Need for Change

Tilikum stands as a prime example for as to why orca whales should not be forced into captivity. Because they are taken away from their families and their natural environment where they are able to thrive and live a longer life, their behavior is likely to change. We can prevent these tragic incidents from happening by stopping orca whale shows in sea aquariums and giving these orca whales a slow transition back into the ocean. This way, they will not have to face the tremendous shock right away of a complete environment change. If we can ensure a safe and slow transition, these animals will have an easier time adapting to the habitat that they are entitled to. 

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Nassau Grouper

Trumps Efforts of Rolling Back Climate Change

The Stropharia Mushroom Farm: From Field Trip to Research Project