Despite the closure, Wikie and her son Keijo are still in their pools, facilitated by trainers who, according to overhead footage obtained by the activist group TideBreakers, have been seen administering sexual relief to the young orca. Marineland asserts that this method is intended to alleviate mounting sexual tensions as Keijo matures, and to discourage potential aggression between the pair. However, Valerie Greene, a former SeaWorld trainer and TideBreakers member, expresses concern over the practice, deeming it unusual and calling it morally unacceptable in light of Keijo's questionable breeding status.
The French Ministry of Ecology has been involved since the zoo's closure, but no consensus on the orcas' future home has been reached, adding to the urgency of the situation. While the facility denies any intention of using Keijo's semen for breeding, concerns linger regarding the ethics of such practices, especially given Keijo's genetic background.
Past efforts to rehome the orcas have faced bureaucratic hurdles. The French government is criticized for not facilitating quicker solutions and alternatives as time is running out for the orcas’ safe relocation. The situation looks bleak, with advocates worried that without immediate action, the conditions at Marineland could severely compromise the welfare of these marine mammals.
Animal welfare advocates continue to push for immediate action to find a sanctuary for Keijo and Wikie, as they remain in a precarious situation that needs urgent resolution for their well-being.
The French Ministry of Ecology has been involved since the zoo's closure, but no consensus on the orcas' future home has been reached, adding to the urgency of the situation. While the facility denies any intention of using Keijo's semen for breeding, concerns linger regarding the ethics of such practices, especially given Keijo's genetic background.
Past efforts to rehome the orcas have faced bureaucratic hurdles. The French government is criticized for not facilitating quicker solutions and alternatives as time is running out for the orcas’ safe relocation. The situation looks bleak, with advocates worried that without immediate action, the conditions at Marineland could severely compromise the welfare of these marine mammals.
Animal welfare advocates continue to push for immediate action to find a sanctuary for Keijo and Wikie, as they remain in a precarious situation that needs urgent resolution for their well-being.
