Images of two orcas and 12 dolphins stranded in an abandoned water park in France have sparked global outrage.
Following the closure of Marineland Antibes in January, the animals remain in tanks under deplorable conditions, as denounced by the activist group TideBreakers.
French law banned shows with cetaceans, leaving these animals without a clear destiny. Meanwhile, the situation in the park deteriorates every day, with tanks infested with algae.
“Time is running out, this is an emergency”, warned the activists.
Orcas trapped in deteriorated facilities
The orcas Wikie (23 years old) and her son Keijo (11 years old) still remain in the park’s tanks, surrounded by crumbling structures.
According to TideBreakers, authorities have even considered euthanasia due to the lack of viable options for their relocation.
“After years of entertaining the public, they deserve a clean and safe environment to live with dignity”, expressed the activists.
Uncertain future for dolphins and whales
The French government rejected the idea of transferring the whales to Japan, while Spain refused to receive them in an aquarium in the Canary Islands.
The Whale Sanctuary Project organization proposed building a sanctuary in Canada, but is still awaiting approval.
International pressure to find a solution
The world’s eyes are on Marineland Antibes, awaiting a decision on the fate of these majestic cetaceans.
Meanwhile, pressure mounts on the French government, which must act swiftly to ensure the well-being of the affected orcas and dolphins.
