Sea World Experience Softens Image : The Not-So-Beastly Killer Whale

Only in the last 20 years have killer whales been regarded with anything but fear by travelers to the cold waters of the Arctic and Antarctic oceans. Frequently, the beasts were shot for sport.

But in 1965, Sea World presented Shamu, the first trained killer whale.

As trainers became acquainted with the huge marine mammal, they learned that the killer whale could differentiate between people and could develop relationships with them.

Such relationships are the key to the marine mammal training technique Sea World uses with its resident killer whales, according to Jerry Roberts, publicist for the park.

“I think the most exhilarating thing about working with Shamu is being in the water with him,” said Joanne Hay, one of the five killer whale trainers employed by Sea World. “All of a sudden it’s just you and this incredible animal--in his environment.”

To the animals, the trainers are both coach and friend. And because of Sea World’s efforts, the public has become aware of the killer whale’s intelligence and gentleness.

“You realize he not only knows and tolerates you, he really seems to like having you there,” Hay said. “You tend to forget he’s 4,500 pounds of killer whale and not just a big puppy.”