SeaWorld’s last killer whale calf born at San Antonio park

The last killer whale has been born in captivity at a SeaWorld park.

The birth at the San Antonio, Texas theme park comes a year after SeaWorld's decision to stop breeding orcas.

SeaWorld, based in Orlando, Florida, said the calf was born Wednesday afternoon. It's the last in a generation of orca bred in confinement.

The last baby killer whale is born at San Antonio park
The last baby killer whale is born at San Antonio park Credit: Seaworld Parks and Entertainment

Its mother, 25-year-old Takara, was already pregnant when SeaWorld announced in March 2016 it had stopped breeding its orcas, following years of animal rights protests and declining ticket sales. Gestation for orcas lasts about 18 months.

Veterinarians haven't yet determined whether the calf is male or female. SeaWorld's chief zoological officer, Chris Dold, told The Associated Press that calf and mother were swimming calmly after a smooth labor.

SeaWorld says both appear healthy. 

 

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