A decision resulting from a “binding agreement” between The Dolphin Company, which operates the Seaquarium, Miami-Dade County and animal rights activists. Activists, including the park owner’s daughter, had for several years denounced the living conditions of the 6-meter-long animal in what is, according to PETA, “the smallest pool of orcas in the world”. The basin where Lolita lived almost all of her existence actually measures 26 by 11 meters.
The animal’s return to the Pacific Ocean, where it was captured more than 50 years ago, is expected to follow a “release plan” spread over the next two years, said the establishment. The transfer of the orca will be done in particular with the non-profit organization Friends of Lolita while travel expenses will be paid by Jim Irsay, owner of the NFL football team, the Indianapolis Colts. “I’m thrilled to be part of Lolita’s journey”, he rejoiced on Twitter, “It’s a tough creature. It’s unbelievable”.
Due to its years spent in the pool, the return of the killer whale to the ocean will not signify a complete return to the wild state. “I’m afraid when people see that she’s been brought home they’ll imagine it’s some sort of ‘Free Willy’ where she’s swimming around and getting closer to her family. I can’t can’t imagine that happening”, warned the BBC Jason Colbyenvironmental historian and professor at the University of Victoria.
