I think (hope) we all learned something. Earlier this week, a SeaWorld trainer was dragged under water and drowned by a killer whale. Needless to say, it's all over the news. My thoughts to the trainer and her family, but I hope all of this doesn't drag on and on.
One thing that amazes me is how shocked everyone is about this incident. I started thinking about why this is making such huge headlines. When it comes down to it, it's how we portray killer whales--gentle, Disney animals who welcome little kids to the stage during their shows, with their great big smiles. Basically we've forgotten the fact that they are powerful, voracious predators in the wild. Predators who are used to swimming up to 100 nautical (140 land miles) per day, not a few circles in a tank.
There have been many incidents of lions, bears, elephants attacking and even killing trainers, but they haven't quite made the cuddly wuddly list yet-- even though, in their respective environments, are just as ferocious as our friend the orca. That's why we haven't heard all the hype about those incidents.
Lastly, I understand Seaworld is in the business of doing business, but they've decided to continue working with Tiliku, the whale who retired the trainer and sent her delivering mail to groundhogs. That part I don't understand. At least throw the thing back in the ocean. And if you'd rather have the beast performing for kiddies in the future, don't make a big deal if Tiliku decides to have another bad day and another breath-holding contest with a human.
In case you aren't yet convinced, the same whale had previously been involved in 2 other deaths.
And before you go there, don't confuse me with PETA- those people are crazy. But before you let the news stories shatter your childhood image of Shamu, just thinking about the whole thing logically.
