The fate of the two killer whales at Marineland remains in the balance after its closure

If on the one hand we can only finally rejoice for the closure of the Marineland marine park in Antibes in France, on the other hand there is an issue that cannot be underestimated: the future of animals that inhabited it, in particular the two killer whales Wikie and Keijo.

The park, famous for its absurd dolphin and orca shows that attracted 90% of its visitors, announced its permanent closure on January 5, 2025, following new French legislation that prohibits the use of cetaceans for shows in marine parks. The law, introduced in 2021, will come into force in 2026, putting an end to this practice across France.

Now, however, the question of the fate of his orcas, two specimens of Icelandic orcas, must be addressed. Wikie, a 23-year-old female, and her 11-year-old son Keijo, they are born in captivity and cannot be released into the ocean as they do not have the skills needed to survive.

The two possible solutions

This has led to a number of relocation proposals, but also to disagreements between animal advocates and the authorities. Park management initially proposed sending the orcas to Japan, where they would continue to live in a marine park.

However the idea was rejected by the French government, which highlighted the concerns about the treatment of animals in Japan and on the risks of the long journey. Suggested alternatives include the Loro Parkin Tenerife, which, while respecting European standards for animal welfare, continue to keep the animals in captivityfueling fears that orcas may be forced to perform.

Another option is the creation of a marine sanctuarya protected area where animals can live freely, but always under the care and supervision of experts. A proposed Whale Sanctuary Project proposes a 44-hectare area of ​​ocean, located off the coast of Nova Scotia, where Wikie and Keijo could spend the rest of their lives in a more natural environment.

Activists, including the president of the One Voice association, Muriel Arnal, are putting pressure on the French government to support this solution, considered the most respectful for the well-being of orcas. For the moment, however, the fate of the two orcas still remains uncertain, while public mobilization in favor of one is growing more humane solution and compatible with the needs of animals.