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Sea World, Orlando Trainer Killed by Whale - Are Captive Whales Dangerous?

by Lorrie Davids⁽⁶⁶³⁾ Blue Star

February 24, 2010 started out like any other day at Sea World, but things turned deadly for Dawn Brancheau, a whale trainer at Sea World, Orlando.

Reports vary, with some saying Brancheau slipped into the tank and others saying Tilikum, the 12,000 pound killer whale pulled her into the pool. One park guest said at an earlier show the audience was told the whales weren't "in the mood for it" when the performance was not a great show.

This particular orca, nick-named Tilly, has killed before. One previous death was reported when someone jumped into the tank after hours. The man was found on Tilly's back, thought to have died from hypothermia. Another was at an park similar to Sea World when a trainer slipped into the tank.

What went wrong? Some have suggested that if Brancheau slipped into the tank it was unexpected and excited the whale. But, no one really knows why. No matter how well trained, the whales are wild animals and every day, every show, there is the risk of this scenario. It could also be that Tilly was playing - whales don't know humans can't hold their breath as long as they can.

News shows are telling of some who believe the whale should be euthanized. Animal activists believe it is cruel to keep the animals in captivity, that they are abused and mistreated and should be in the ocean. One website claims Sea World has been investigated in the past for withholding food and playing whale calls underwater. This makes the orcas swim faster and perform longer.

The Humane Society of the United States agrees with the assessment that captive animals can become dangerous. No animal park can compete with the animals natural habitat.

According to the HSUS bringing whales into captivity is big business. One orca can bring in $1 million.

So, what do we do? Stop studying the animals in captivity, capitalizing on their entertainment value on display? I am one who loves to watch animals, yes, even at Sea World. I really don't know what the answer is. Got any thoughts on this? Please leave your comments below.

Some great information on whales in captivity can be found here.

Article submitted Thursday, February 25, 2010 & read 322 times.

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» left by Linda DeWitt (1 year 342 days ago.)

I don't think they should keep them in captivity. It's all about follow the money.
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» left by Lorrie Davids⁽⁶⁶³⁾ (1 year 329 days ago.)

Hi Linda. I am starting to wonder...I've loved going to the sea aquarium shows, but now I will always wonder about it all, especially after seeing a spot about the captured dolphins in Japan. I agree with you about the almighty dollar. Sad...isn't it?

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