Controversy Surrounds Plans to Transfer French Orcas to Loro Parque

A legal dispute has arisen over the proposed transfer of two orcas, Wikie and her son Keijo, from Marineland in France to Loro Parque in Tenerife. This situation has sparked widespread debate among animal rights advocates, environmentalists, and the general public, raising critical questions about animal welfare and the ethics of keeping cetaceans in captivity.

Background of the Orca Transfer

Loro Parque, located in Puerto de la Cruz, is one of Europe’s largest zoos and continues to feature orca displays despite a growing trend in Europe to ban cetacean shows. The park is seeking to bring Wikie, aged 24, and her 11-year-old son Keijo to join the four orcas already residing there. This move comes in the wake of Marineland’s permanent closure in January 2025, a decision prompted by a national ban on cetacean performances in France.

The closure of Marineland has left the orcas without a home, prompting Loro Parque to pursue the transfer as a means of ensuring the animals’ welfare. The zoo argues that relocating the orcas is a more humane option compared to euthanasia, which has been suggested as a last resort in France. This perspective has fueled the ongoing debate about the best course of action for the animals involved.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

The Spanish branch of CITES issued an unfavorable report regarding the transfer, leading Loro Parque to initiate legal action to contest this decision. The zoo asserts that it adheres to all European and national welfare standards and has the necessary capacity to care for the orcas. In support of Loro Parque, the Government of the Canary Islands has released technical reports affirming the zoo’s compliance with animal care regulations, emphasizing its commitment to the welfare of the animals.

Despite this support, animal rights organizations advocate for a sanctuary rather than another performance venue. A report from a French environmental agency recommends that Canada be the first choice for relocation, citing the closure of many dolphinariums and the decreasing availability of facilities that meet modern animal welfare standards. This recommendation highlights the growing concern over the ethical implications of transferring orcas to facilities that continue to engage in cetacean performances.

Concerns Over Animal Welfare

The ongoing debate is intensified by the scrutiny Loro Parque has faced following the deaths of four orcas since 2021, attributed to various health issues. Environmental groups have raised concerns about the conditions in which the animals are kept, questioning the park’s animal welfare practices. Critics argue that the deaths of these orcas raise significant red flags regarding the overall health and safety of the remaining animals at the facility.

Loro Parque maintains that each death was due to acute, unpredictable illnesses and insists that its facilities, which include four interconnected tanks with a main pool depth of 12 meters, exceed the minimum requirements set by the US and UK. However, Spain currently lacks specific legislation regarding the minimum space required for cetaceans, leaving a gap in regulatory oversight that has drawn criticism from various stakeholders.

Criticism has also come from the French NGO One Voice, which expressed skepticism about Loro Parque’s suitability as a sanctuary for the orcas, highlighting the deaths that have occurred in recent years. The organization argues that the park’s history raises serious concerns about its ability to provide a safe and nurturing environment for Wikie and Keijo.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the case remains under review, and the final decision on whether Wikie and Keijo will be transferred to Tenerife is still pending. The outcome of this situation will likely have significant implications not only for the orcas involved but also for the broader conversation about the ethics of keeping marine mammals in captivity.

Key Points

• Loro Parque plans to transfer two orcas, Wikie and Keijo, from Marineland in France.
• The Marineland facility closed in January 2025 due to a national ban on cetacean shows.
• The Spanish branch of CITES issued an unfavorable report on the transfer.
• The Government of the Canary Islands supports Loro Parque’s compliance with animal welfare standards.
• Animal rights organizations advocate for a sanctuary instead of another performance park.
• Loro Parque has faced scrutiny following the deaths of four orcas since 2021.
• The final decision on the transfer of the orcas is still pending.