Entertainment ·SeaWorld

SeaWorld is Ending its Killer Whale Show

BYMichal Addady
November 9, 2015, 7:31 PM UTC
Killer Whale Born At SeaWorld San Diego
SAN DIEGO, CA - DECEMBER 23: In this handout image provided by SeaWorld San Diego, a baby killer whale, born December 21 swims with its mother, Kasatka, a 28-year-old whale December 23, 2004 at SeaWorld in San Diego, California. After a nearly 18-month gestation, Kasatka's calf, estimated to weigh between 300 and 350 pounds and measure between 6 to 7 feet, was born in Shamu Stadium's main show pool following a little more than two hours of labor. (Photo by Mike Aguilera/SeaWorld San Diego via Getty Images)
Photograph by Mike Aguilera — SeaWorld San Diego via Getty Images

SeaWorld reportedly revealed plans on Monday to gradually get rid of its controversial killer whale show at its San Diego park by next year.

The decision, as reported by the San Diego Union Tribune, comes amid persistent criticism over the park’s treatment of its orca whales that was brought to the forefront by the 2013 documentary Blackfish. The park has had a hard time recovering, and attendance has been down, particularly at the San Diego location, as SeaWorld deals with state and federal efforts to improve treatment of captive orcas.

Southern California Congressman Adam Schiff also said Friday he will introduce a bill banning the breeding of captive orcas, the capturing of wild orcas, and their import and export. Additionally, the California Coastal Commission recently banned SeaWorld from breeding orcas, a ruling the park says it will fight against.

SeaWorld is reallocating money that was originally meant to expand its orca tanks toward a new “orca experience,” according to the San Diego Union Tribune. The new project will debut in 2017 and has been described as “informative” with a “conservation message inspiring people to act.” The company has yet to mention any plans regarding its Orlando and San Antonio parks.