Whales at Sea World

In response to “Shadow Over Sea World” (Part A, Nov. 19):

If Sea World based its decisions genuinely on what’s best for the animals instead of its economic dependence on killer whales, it would not pursue obtaining additional orcas.

In this age of environmental sensitivity, there is a growing force questioning whether or not some species should be held captive at all. Since animal deaths are a matter of public record, marine parks can no longer dismiss their critics. Questions remain unanswered surrounding the recent deaths of orcas in particular: Orky had lost nearly one-third of his weight during his last 20 months at San Diego. Yet Sea World attributed the cause of death to “old age.” Kandu, having a history of aggressive behavior, died tragically in San Diego after a display of dominance towards a larger orca. Logic would suggest that incompatible animals be separated. Such an “accident” would be unlikely in the wild, where animals can escape such challenges. Kanduke’s unexpected death last month in Orlando is under federal investigation; a 16- to 18-inch collapsed plastic float was found in his stomach.

While acknowledging five successful orca births since 1985, the recent deaths have left the four parks with eight remaining adults, only one of which is a male. Clearly, Sea World’s captive breeding program is a dismal failure.

Seventeen of Sea World’s orcas have died since 1965. How many more orcas and other cetaceans must die before the public recognizes that these magnificent creatures are doomed to lives in bloated fishbowls under the guise of conservation and education? It is ultimately the consumer who will decide the fate of such theme parks. It is simply a choice between ethics and the price of admission.

JERYE MOONEY, Coordinator, Fund for Animals, Los Angeles