The last two remaining orcas in captivity in France face a grim future as activists warn that government inaction regarding the abandoned marine park could lead to their demise. Wikie and her son Keijo are the only killer whales left in France, left to swim in a deteriorating tank after the closure of Marineland Antibes earlier this year. These orcas spend their days isolated and longing for the connections they once had with their now-deceased family members.
With the park closed to the public, the orcas’ living conditions are worsening, with their tank water becoming increasingly dirty and overrun by foul-smelling green algae. Despite minimal human interaction from a reduced staff, Wikie and Keijo have been forgotten by the audiences they once entertained. Nearby, 12 bottlenose dolphins are the only other inhabitants of the decaying park, facing a similar uncertain future.
Cetacean advocacy group TideBreakers has been urging the French government to take urgent action and rescue the animals from the park before it’s too late. The closure of the park followed extensive campaigns by organizations like PETA and protests by animal protection associations, including collaborations with celebrities such as Pamela Anderson.
Despite legislation banning entertainment shows featuring whales and dolphins and setting a deadline for relocating the animals by December 2026, the government has rejected proposals to rehome the orcas. Various relocation options, including Japan and Canada, have been dismissed due to concerns about animal welfare and logistical challenges.
Efforts to transfer the orcas and dolphins to alternative locations have faced setbacks, with recommendations against unsuitable facilities like Loro Parque in Tenerife. The French government continues to explore solutions while campaigners stress the urgency of the situation.
Wikie and Keijo’s future remains uncertain, with fears that they may not survive much longer in their current conditions. The government’s recent decision to transfer them to a sanctuary in Canada marks a significant step towards providing them a more suitable environment. This move is seen as a crucial development in ensuring the welfare and safety of these intelligent creatures, potentially happening as early as summer 2026.