In 2013, SeaWorld encountered scandalous accusations that the killer whales or orcas held in captivity are experiencing detrimental effects. SeaWorld called it a propaganda but nothing can stop the negative comments from flooding in and in turn affect the theme park's ticket sales. In recent events, SeaWorld is phasing out their current orca shows in San Diego as a response to their park guests' feedback.
California Congressman Adam Schiff and Richard Bloom, assemblyman from Santa Monica, introduced a legislation that prohibits the breeding of captive orcas and stops wild capture for the purposes of recreational and public display, in an article from CNBC. It's called the Orca Responsibility and Care Advancement Act.
A park representative told SeaWorld investors in a company webcast on Monday that the theme park is listening to feedback from guests and that they are evolving and changing as a company.
Schiff released a statement at a press conference on Friday that the evidence against psychological and physical harm done to the orca whales are so strong that it outweighs any benefits recovered from the recreational and public display in theme parks. "We cannot be responsible stewards of our natural environment and propagate messages about the importance of animal welfare when our benefits do not reflect our principles", Schiff added.
In response to the press release, SeaWorld issued a statement saying that SeaWorld is part of the solution and not a problem. "Killer whales at SeaWorld are healthy and thriving... SeaWorld is a leader in protecting and preserving these species." In an effort to emphasize their commitment as being part of the solution, SeaWorld's official Twitter page tweeted out a company fact: Did you know #SeaWorld has not collected a #killerwhale in more than 35 years?"
SeaWorld San Diego will replace its orca show, One Ocean, with a new one scheduled to be shown in 2017 that focuses more on conservation. Orlando and San Antonio SeaWorld parks have not yet indicated if they will follow suit.
