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SeaWorld Confirms Release Plans for Five Animals, Partners With Other Parks

Killer whales jumping out of the water at SeaWorld Orlando, SeaWorld San Antonio.
Credit: SeaWorld

SeaWorld has exciting news about the relocation of five animals as part of its ongoing rehabilitation efforts.

The debate surrounding animal captivity intensified after the release of Blackfish in 2013, which highlighted the troubling conditions faced by marine animals, particularly killer whales. The film brought attention to Tilikum, the orca from SeaWorld Orlando involved in three of the four fatal attacks by killer whales on humans, reigniting discussions about the ethics of confinement.

Orca jumps out of the water at SeaWorld Orlando

Credit: Fabian Vasquez, Flickr

Animal rights activists argue that keeping these intelligent beings in captivity is unethical, depriving them of their freedom and natural behaviors. However, releasing these animals back into the wild is a complex issue. Experts warn that killer whales raised in captivity often lack the necessary survival skills to thrive in the ocean.

After spending most or all of their lives in tanks, they may struggle to navigate vast waters, find food, or interact with their wild counterparts. Moreover, there are concerns about the potential introduction of diseases or genetic issues to wild populations.

In contrast, many other animals at SeaWorld Orlando are more than capable of returning to their natural habitats—and often do—thanks to the park’s dedicated rehabilitation program. SeaWorld Orlando, San Antonio, and San Diego have all played crucial roles in rescuing and rehabilitating local wildlife, including seals and manatees.

Orca Stadium at SeaWorld Orlando

Credit: Chad Sparkes, Flickr

Gov. Ron DeSantis strongly supports the latter cause in Florida, as does his wife, Casey DeSantis, who often plays a role in SeaWorld’s manatee freedom efforts.

This week, SeaWorld announced the upcoming freedom of five more animals that have undergone rehabilitation through partnerships with Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, as well as the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership and delivery company DHL.

A manatee swims underwater at SeaWorld

Credit: SeaWorld

Nighthawk, Mr. Dobak, Nolia, Amethyst, and Waffles are nearing readiness for their return to the wild after more than a year of rehabilitation. Since their rescue from various locations around Florida, each has made impressive strides. Nighthawk has skyrocketed from 180 pounds to an astounding 678 pounds, while Mr. Dobak has grown to 497 pounds.

The three other manatees—Nolia, Amethyst, and Waffles—also came from precarious situations but have gained significant weight, showcasing the effectiveness of the rehabilitation process and the dedication of the teams involved.

All five animals will be transferred to SeaWorld Orlando this fall to prepare for their return to natural waters, which could begin as early as this winter.

SeaWorld's rehabilitation team helps a manatee

Credit: SeaWorld

“After a year of care, the trio has reached their target weight and is set to return to Florida’s waters!” said Lindsay Garrett, headkeeper of the North America department at the Cincinnati Zoo. “Our role as a second-stage rehabilitation facility is to provide ample food and top-notch medical care. It’s incredibly rewarding to see them healthy and ready for their natural environment.”

This isn’t the first instance of marine mammals being returned to the wild. Tokitae, known as Lolita, lived at the controversial Miami Seaquarium, which has recently faced eviction due to its poor animal care reputation and unpaid rent. The facility announced plans to release her in March 2023, but she sadly passed away in August 2023.

Additionally, Walt Disney World Resort’s EPCOT recently announced the release of Lou the manatee from The Seas with Nemo & Friends attraction, sending him to another rehabilitation center in Florida, leaving his tank mate, Lil Joe, alone.

What are your thoughts on the upcoming release of SeaWorld’s five manatees?

About Chloe James

Chloë is a theme park addict and self-proclaimed novelty hunter. She's obsessed with all things Star Wars, loves roller coasters (but hates Pixar Pal-A-Round), and lives for Disney's next Muppets project.

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