Readers React: SeaWorld’s move to change orca shows is a PR stunt

To the editor: This “change” in the format of SeaWorld’s orca shows in San Diego doesn’t really change anything. It is little more than window dressing. (“Embattled SeaWorld to overhaul killer whale show,” Nov. 9)

What exactly does the format change mean? SeaWorld won’t have trainers sitting on their noses? There may be less music, but there is no educational value in trained orcas being kept in tanks, some of which are barely big enough to move around in.

And the indefensible treatment of its captive orcas will continue.

SeaWorld is also still proceeding with its litigation against the California Coastal Commission over restrictions placed on its captive breeding program. The fact that SeaWorld is continuing with this program proves that this is all a stunt for investors with no real meaning. The captive bred whales will be shipped all over the world to face a cruel existence.

SeaWorld needs to end the shows, end the breeding and send these orcas to sanctuaries.

Sara Wan, Malibu

The writer is a former chairwoman of the California Coastal Commission.

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To the editor: Animal lovers have shot themselves in the foot.

Through SeaWorld, generations of young people have come to view orcas with awe and respect and, I believe, a related respect for other sea life. This was accomplished by maintaining a few dozen whales in captivity, a minuscule amount relative to the worldwide population.

Yet it provided a huge understanding of orcas and their environment. Ironically, the critical 2013 documentary “Blackfish” reflects this understanding.

What now? Change the show? Perhaps. But the damage has been done, and we face the unintended negative consequences for the learning experience and its positive effects.

W.R. Frederick, Tarzana

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