Overview

• The closure of Marineland Antibes in January 2025 left two orcas and twelve dolphins in neglected, algae-infested pools with minimal care.
• Wikie, 23, and her son Keijo, 11, are the last orcas in captivity in France, unable to be released into the wild due to their captive upbringing.
• Attempts to relocate the animals to facilities in Tenerife, Japan, or a Canadian sanctuary have failed, leaving their future unresolved.
• Activist group TideBreakers released aerial footage showing deteriorating conditions and is advocating for a temporary, specialized pool to improve the orcas' welfare.
• The French government, which holds ultimate responsibility, has yet to finalize a plan, citing concerns about the stress of long-distance transport for the animals.