Update On Killer Whale Theatrical Shows And Breeding: Bill Prohibiting Such Acts Now A Law

Months after SeaWorld promised to end its killer whale shows, California has banned doing orca or killer whale theatrical shows and breeding. This follows a new measure Governor Jerry Brown signed on Tuesday. It prohibits individuals and corporations to breed killer whales in captivity. Theatrical shows are likewise expected to stop and will be replaced by educational encounters. Such measure will go into effect on June 2017.

The bill has passed after years of controversy regarding killer whale theatrical shows and breeding. It was authored by California Assembly Member Richard Bloom. Now, it is a state law that needs to be strictly followed. Independent reported that law breakers can be fined by up to $100, 000.

The state law allows the rescue of orcas for the purpose of research or rehabilitation. It likewise encourages returning the animals back to the wild, if possible.

According to CNN, SeaWorld San Diego is planning to retain 11 whales under its care. Due to environmental threats in the oceans, the company believes that the best and safest thing to do with the whales is to let them live in SeaWorld where they receive top care. Some of the environmental threats waiting in the oceans are pollution and oil spills. While the park has previously said that it does not have any position on the bill, its breeding program has been ended in March.

Meanwhile, 'Blackfish' featured the orcas and discussed the practice of capturing these animals in the wild in 1970s. It likewise discussed how SeaWorld raised the orcas in dark and cramped situations. Also highlighted was Dawn Brancheau's death by Tilikum, a 12,000-pound killer whale. Brancheau was a veteran trainer.

In the time being, critics praised the law. Marilyn Kroplick, In Defense of Animals president, commended the California State Assembly for acting on behalf of the killer whales. She likewise praised Governor Jerry Brown.

Indeed, stopping killer whale theatrical shows and breeding can greatly improve the lives of these whales. Switching from entertainment shows to educational encounters is likewise beneficial to both people and the animals. SeaWorld is the biggest marine park operator in the world.