SeaWorld and other aquatic theme parks are facing increased pressure from Washington to phase out their controversial displays of killer whales.
The Orca Responsibility and Care Advancement Act announced Friday by Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) would prohibit the capture and breeding of killer whales while phasing out the the use of those already in captivity.
{mosads}Amid claims of animal cruelty at SeaWorld, the legislation would ensure this is “the last generation of orcas who live in captivity,” Schiff said. After that, “we will appreciate these incredible creatures where they belong — in the wild.”
“The evidence is very strong that the psychological and physical harm done to these magnificent animals far outweighs any benefits reaped from their display,” Schiff said in a statement.
“We cannot be responsible stewards of our natural environment and propagate messages about the importance of animal welfare when our behaviors do not reflect our principles.”
The federal government regulates the capture and import of orcas, which hasn’t happened in decades. The bill would formally prohibit these activities. It would also ban the breeding of orcas that are already in captivity.
Animal rights activists say orcas live longer in the wild, where they are able to swim as much as 100 miles in a day. They praised the legislation for seeking to end what they referred to as a “marine prison” for killer whales.
“The ocean is where orcas belong,” said Jared Goodman, director of animal law at the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.
“Everyone, from children to members of Congress, now recognizes that in SeaWorld’s tanks, orcas suffer both physically and psychologically, are drugged, die prematurely, and lash out as a result of extreme frustration,” he added.
“No amount of toys, larger tanks, better veterinary care or love and attention from their trainers will ever come close to simulating the richness of their lives in the ocean,” added Samantha Berg, a former marine mammal trainer at SeaWorld.
“We cannot meet their needs in captivity,” she said.
In a statement published by The Orlando Sentinel, SeaWorld said that “while efforts to phase out whales in human care may strike an emotional chord, SeaWorld and other science-based organizations are part of the solution, not the problem.”