Orcas' Fate Hangs in the Balance Amid Sanctuary Proposals

After the closure of Marineland Antibes, efforts to find a suitable home for the orcas Wikie and Keijo are ongoing, with potential sanctuaries debated but no clarity on final outcomes.

The uncertain fate of two killer whales, Wikie and her son Keijo, continues to evoke concern from animal rights activists as they remain at Marineland Antibes, a marine zoo in southern France, which closed in January amidst a ban on orca performances. Since the closure, facility managers have sought alternatives for relocating the orcas, causing tension with advocates who argue for their transfer to a sanctuary that prioritizes their welfare over entertainment.

Wikie, aged 23, and her 11-year-old son have been implicated in a series of proposed moves that have sparked backlash, particularly after a potential transfer to a sanctuary in Canada was denied by the French government weeks ago. French ecology minister Agnès Pannier-Runacher is engaging counterparts in Spain, Italy, and Greece to create a sanctuary in Europe, but the proposal remains vague and is criticized for lacking concrete plans.

Loro Parque, a Spanish marine zoo interested in taking the orcas, expressed concern about the implementation of a sanctuary that could meet the orca's social and environmental needs. The vice president of Loro Parque mentioned that a practical sanctuary design would require considerable time for research and development, during which Wikie and Keijo remain in limbo.

Despite the ongoing discussions, worry about the orcas' wellbeing is mounting. Recent deaths of orcas at Loro Parque have drawn attention to the facility's record, leading many campaigners, including Katheryn Wise from World Animal Protection, to advocate against sending them there. Concerns also arise regarding Wikie's potential for breeding at Loro Parque, particularly given the recent announcement of another orca at the facility being pregnant.

Pannier-Runacher's proposal for a European sanctuary has prompted polarized reactions, with critiques pointing out that the Mediterranean environment is unsuitable for orcas whose origins lie in Icelandic waters. Despite the challenges, some organizations like Sea Shepherd view the minister’s initiative as a positive step toward creating a dedicated habitat for the orcas that allows them greater autonomy.

Making a commitment to animal welfare as France marks a 'Year of the Sea', Pannier-Runacher’s efforts may pave the way for a sanctuary, reflecting growing public concern over marine life treatment. While the future remains uncertain, the need for a responsible solution to provide a better life for Wikie and Keijo is undeniably pressing.