Blackfish and It’s Impact
I would imagine that if you’ve stopped to read this article you’re already familiar with the 2013 documentary Blackfish. No need to go into depth. But I will say that after watching the film I was like many others, outraged by what it relieved about SeaWorld’s policies of collecting and caring, or lack of, for Orca (Orcinus orca).
And obviously, most of the public agreed. The company disputed many of the film’s accusations of animal abuse and neglect. Shortly after its release SeaWorld’s stock price and park attendance plummeted. It ultimately led to the resignation of CEO Jim Atchison.
Atchison was replaced by Joel Manby who announced, “We are going to end our orca breeding. … Obviously, that’s a very difficult decision for us, but we feel it’s the right one for the future of the organization,”
He also added SeaWorld would phase out their theatrical shows. “So it’ll be more naturalistic show and environment for our orcas, and we’re going to teach all of our customers about the plight of them in the wild,” Manby said.
Go or No-go
Given all the above, I was torn as to whether to go or not. On the one hand, it felt that a betrayal of my beliefs in conservation. On the other, I was curious to see first-hand if SeaWorld had indeed make changes and to what degree.
There was also the added component that in the past, as I kid and young adult, I had loved going to SeaWorld and every other marine park that was in driving distance. To be honest, I have no doubt that it was the exposure to the marvels of the undersea world that help seed my love of the marine environment. Remember I grew up during the Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau.
In the end, we elected to go and spend the day.
“
Member of the following
Latest Tweets
MGL Twitter error: Error: 89 Invalid or expired token.
Latest Instagram
One of the best things about volunteering for citizen-science projects is the opportunity to spend time in some truly breathtaking places. And with fall just around the corner, it's an especially beautiful time to be outdoors. There's nothing quite like watching the leaves change colors and feeling that fresh autumn breeze on your face. It's a great way to connect with nature and make a difference at the same time.
Our only tide window to conduct this month’s #COASST bird survey was just before sunset. Not only did we have the beach to ourselves, but we were rewarded with this view when we rounded the point. Had to pause the survey and just enjoy the view and tranquility.
We're spending the weekend exploring the 'Great Bend' of Hood Canal. We found a nice private campground to base out of. This is just one of the many views to be found on North Shore Drive.
Taking a brief pause to appreciate the beautiful sunset on the Long Beach Peninsula.
I recently went hiking in the Olympic Peninsula forests and stumbled upon this beautiful waterfall. It was such a serene and peaceful spot, and I felt so lucky to have found it. There are so many hidden gems to discover when exploring the great outdoors!
With the hot weather we've endured, I'm looking forward to Fall and the dramatic weather. Here's a sunset over North Head Lighthouse.
After a short hike along Murhut Creek, which originates from a narrow basin on the south side of the lower Duckabush River valley, we arrived at the lower half of Murhut Falls. The falls consist of two sections with a combined height of 153 feet, although only the lower half was visible from our vantage point.
I haven't had the opportunity to take a stroll around Waughop Lake lately, yet I couldn't help but notice the abundant greenery that now adorns the trails.
During our recent camping trip on the Washington coast with friends, we took a bike ride to Cape Disappointment State Park. We came across the Northhead Lighthouse, but unfortunately, it was closed at the time due to an ongoing cliff rescue operation.
Spent an incredible day immersed in nature's wonders with my adventurous partner, Theresa! 🌿🌈 We hiked along the majestic Chehalis River, mesmerized by its crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings. And then, we stumbled upon the magnificent Rainbow Falls waterfall, its cascading waters painting the landscape with vibrant colors! 🏞️💦 Moments like these remind us of the pure magic that awaits when we embrace the great outdoors.
Looking forward to this sunny weekend getaway at Rainbow Falls State Park Exploring the stunning beauty of nature and immersing ourselves in the serenity of the namesake waterfall.
On a sunny day at the beach, the four of us enjoyed riding our bikes along the shoreline, feeling the sun's warmth on our skin. We laughed and chatted as we pedaled, the refreshing sea breeze accompanying us. Eventually, we reached the breathtaking Cape Disappointment Lighthouse, where we paused to take in the stunning view of the sparkling ocean and rugged cliffs. It was a perfect moment of friendship and natural beauty.
I had to stay close to home this weekend, but the Lakewood Summerfest was fun. Hot air balloons lit the venue.
We recently adopted a new #COASST beach for our beaches bird surveys. You can find more articles and photographs in the link above. #YourShotPhotographer #conquernorthwest #nextstop24traveler
A trail leading through the coastal forest on the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Read the latest article about our new #COASST beach. Link in the description.
Looking at the turnaround point to our new survey beach, which lies just to the west of Murdock Beach.
My Thoughts
So here’s what I observed and the conclusion I reached.
The quickest way to see what SeaWorld true message was to check out the numerous, and I do mean numerous, souvenir shops. Everything piece of clothing, water bottle, refrigerated magnet stressed the importance of RESCUE, REHAB, RETURN.
Every reader board near an animal display informed the public of the current issues what that animal and the ever-changing environment and stress placed on the species by man. I thought this very commendable and I liked the message. And what a platform to reach a young audience.
The park attendance was light that day, but it seemed like the kids had the adults outnumbered somewhere around 2 to 1. As we sat in the bleachers waiting for the Orca show I looked around at them. The anticipation and excitement was palpable. It reminded me of me when I was their age and that was when I had an epiphany.
SeaWorld really wasn’t to blame for their outdated policies. They were bringing us what we wanted at the time. They were merely a tool providing what we as a market were demanding.
As we became more educated about the world around us, our attitudes and marketing demands changed and to their credit, SeaWorld met those demands.
Bottom line is that we all share the burden of the treatment we’ve dished out to Orcas, so yea, I think it’s time to forgive SeaWorld.
