Statement: Death of 16-Year-Old Orca in Captivity in Japan

In response to reports that a 16-year-old orca has died in captivity in Japan, PETA Senior Vice President Jason Baker released the following statement:

Another orca has died after years of imprisonment in a concrete tank, robbed of everything that made their life worth living. In the ocean, orcas form lifelong bonds, swim up to 160 kilometers a day, and experience a rich, complex life—but in captivity, they endure stress, isolation, and relentless mental suffering.

 

Earth was shuffled between parks—treated like a piece of merchandise—and forced to perform meaningless tricks. For over a decade, he swam in endless circles in tanks that, to him, were the equivalent of bathtubs. This orca’s death is not just a tragedy—it’s the result of a life sentence he never deserved.

 

PETA urges everyone to stay away from aquariums and marine parks that confine animals for entertainment.

For more information, please visit PETAAsia.com.