A Critical Meeting Looms: The Future of Orcas Wikie and Keijo
The fate of two orcas, Wikie and Keijo, hangs in the balance as the French government prepares to convene a meeting on February 16th to determine their future care. The meeting, hosted by Minister of Ecological Transition Matthieu Lefèvre, brings together key stakeholders including the Whale Sanctuary Project, Marineland Antibes’ owners, members of Parliament, and several French non-profit organizations.
From Marineland to Nova Scotia: A Potential New Life
Marineland Antibes closed its doors in January 2025, leaving Wikie and Keijo in need of a permanent home. The French government has expressed its intention for the orcas to be retired to a sanctuary being established in Nova Scotia, Canada. This decision follows the rejection of a transfer to Loro Parque in Tenerife, Spain, by Spanish scientific authorities.
According to a government statement from December 13th, the sanctuary solution is considered “the most credible, the most ethical and the only one that complies with the requirements of animal safety and welfare.” The potential transfer is currently slated for the summer of 2026.
Challenges and Collaboration
Despite the government’s preference, Marineland’s owners have reportedly continued to advocate for a transfer to Loro Parque. The upcoming meeting in Paris is therefore a crucial step in securing the orcas’ relocation to Nova Scotia.
A key focus of the meeting will be fostering collaboration between the Whale Sanctuary Project and Marineland’s team. Recognizing the close bonds between the orcas and their caregivers, officials emphasize the importance of a smooth transition that prioritizes the animals’ wellbeing.
The Rise of Marine Mammal Sanctuaries
The case of Wikie and Keijo highlights a growing global movement towards marine mammal sanctuaries. Historically, orcas and dolphins have been held in captivity for entertainment purposes, but increasing awareness of their complex needs and social structures is driving a shift in public opinion and policy.
The Whale Sanctuary Project isn’t alone in this endeavor. While this project focuses on orcas, other organizations are working to establish sanctuaries for dolphins and other cetaceans. The demand for ethical alternatives to traditional marine parks is increasing, and sanctuaries offer a promising solution.
What Makes a Sanctuary Different?
Unlike marine parks, sanctuaries prioritize the animals’ wellbeing above all else. They provide large, natural sea pens where the animals can exhibit natural behaviors, socialize, and live with greater autonomy. Sanctuaries too focus on rescue and rehabilitation, offering a haven for animals that cannot be released back into the wild.
FAQ: Wikie, Keijo, and the Future of Marine Mammal Welfare
- What is the Whale Sanctuary Project? It is a project establishing a marine sanctuary for cetaceans in Nova Scotia, Canada.
- Why were Wikie and Keijo not allowed to go to Loro Parque? Spanish scientific authorities refused the transfer.
- When could Wikie and Keijo be transferred to the sanctuary? The potential transfer is planned for the summer of 2026.
- What is Marineland’s position on the transfer? Marineland’s owners have reportedly continued to advocate for a transfer to Loro Parque.
Pro Tip: Supporting organizations dedicated to marine mammal welfare, like the Whale Sanctuary Project, can facilitate drive positive change for these intelligent and sensitive creatures.
Learn more about the Whale Sanctuary Project and their mission here.
What are your thoughts on marine mammal sanctuaries? Share your opinions in the comments below!
