Can Sexual Stimulation Save Inbreeding Orcas at the Zoo?

The situation involving the orcas at Marineland Antibes has raised serious ethical concerns regarding animal welfare and the practices employed to manage their breeding. As the facility remains closed, the French government, animal rights activists, and the management team are in a standstill over the future of the two orcas, Wikie and Keijo. In a controversial move, trainers have resorted to sexual stimulation of Keijo to prevent inbreeding with his mother, an act that has sparked widespread outrage and criticism.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Marineland Antibes is closed due to new French laws banning marine mammal shows.
• Keijo, a young male orca, is being sexually stimulated by trainers to prevent inbreeding.
• There is an ongoing debate regarding the ethical implications of this practice.
• Efforts to find a new home for the orcas have been met with governmental delays.
• Animal rights activists are pushing for better conditions and immediate relocation.

The Closure of Marineland Antibes

Marineland Antibes, a prominent marine zoo in southern France, has faced significant scrutiny leading up to its closure in January 2023. The French government implemented a new law that prohibits the use of whales in marine shows, forcing the facility to halt its operations. The impending legislation sought to protect marine animals from exploitation, but the closure has left many questions unanswered about the future of the remaining residents, particularly the orcas.

Wikie and Keijo: A Complicated Relationship

Wikie, a 24-year-old female orca, and her 11-year-old son Keijo are currently housed in separate pools at Marineland. Orcas are known for their complex social structures, and the separation is believed to be detrimental to their wellbeing. Reports indicate that Keijo, as he approaches adolescence, is exhibiting heightened sexual urges, leading the trainers to take drastic measures to manage his behaviour.

Controversial Methods of Behaviour Management

Footage obtained by the animal rights group TideBreakers has revealed trainers stimulating Keijo to relieve his sexual tension. The management at Marineland has justified this practice as a necessary intervention to avoid inbreeding with Wikie and to prevent potential fighting between the two orcas. However, critics argue that this method is ethically questionable and indicative of the broader issues within marine captivity.

Expert Opinions on Animal Welfare

Valerie Greene, a former killer whale trainer and member of TideBreakers, has expressed her concerns regarding the stimulation practice. She stated that, in her experience, such actions are typically reserved for semen collection for artificial insemination rather than mere relief. This raises ethical questions about the motivations behind Keijo's treatment and the implications of potential semen collection for breeding purposes.

The Role of the French Government

The French ecology ministry has acknowledged the current situation regarding Keijo and Wikie and is involved in discussions about their future. However, activists have criticised the government's response as inadequate, claiming that the delay in finding a suitable sanctuary for the orcas is leading to unnecessary suffering. The ministry has indicated that they are working on a coordinated strategy for the care of marine mammals held at Marineland, but the lack of immediate action has raised alarms.

Challenges in Rehoming Marine Animals

Rehoming marine animals, especially larger species like orcas, is fraught with difficulties. Unlike smaller animals, orcas require expansive spaces and specialised care, making it challenging to find appropriate sanctuaries. Previous closures of marine facilities in Europe have often resulted in animals being left without homes or, in some cases, euthanised. For instance, when Living Coasts in Devon closed in 2020, the management faced the grim possibility of having to euthanise animals for which they could not find new homes.

Current Conditions at Marineland

Concerns surrounding the living conditions at Marineland have been exacerbated by the ongoing situation. Recent videos and reports have shown conditions that many believe are unsuitable for such intelligent and social animals. The French government has commissioned an expert assessment of the facilities to ascertain whether Keijo and other marine animals should remain at the site or be relocated.

The Importance of Timely Action

Animal welfare advocates are urging for the swift relocation of Wikie and Keijo to a more suitable environment. Katheryn Wise from World Animal Protection has highlighted the French government's slow response to facilitating alternatives for the orcas. The longer they remain in Marineland, the more their welfare is at risk.

The Future of Orcas in Captivity

The case of Wikie and Keijo is emblematic of broader issues within marine zoos and aquariums. As public sentiment shifts toward animal welfare, many facilities are being forced to reconsider their practices. The closure of Marineland Antibes and the subsequent handling of its orcas could serve as a pivotal moment in how marine mammals are treated in captivity.

Potential for a Sanctuary

While animal rights activists advocate for the establishment of a sanctuary for Wikie and Keijo, the logistical challenges remain substantial. Despite their efforts, time is of the essence as the orcas continue to be held in an environment that may not meet their needs. The lack of developed sanctuary sites in Europe further complicates the situation, leaving the future of these orcas uncertain.

Concluding Thoughts

The ongoing plight of Wikie and Keijo raises significant ethical questions about the treatment of marine mammals in captivity. As government agencies and animal rights advocates grapple with the complexities of rehoming these intelligent creatures, the urgency for a compassionate resolution must be prioritised. The case serves as a reminder of the pressing need for systemic change within the marine captivity industry.

FAQs

Why was Marineland Antibes closed?

Marineland Antibes was closed due to new French laws prohibiting the use of whales in marine shows, aimed at improving animal welfare standards.

What are the concerns regarding Keijo's stimulation?

Animal rights activists are concerned that stimulating Keijo for sexual relief is ethically questionable and may lead to potential semen collection for breeding purposes.

What is being done to rehome Wikie and Keijo?

The French ecology ministry is working on a coordinated strategy to find a suitable sanctuary for the orcas, but delays and challenges persist in the process.

Why is it difficult to rehome orcas?

Rehoming orcas is challenging because they require large, specialised environments and facilities, which are not readily available in many sanctuaries.

What are the potential outcomes for Wikie and Keijo?

The future for Wikie and Keijo remains uncertain as discussions continue regarding their relocation, with pressing calls for a sanctuary or temporary housing.

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