Two orca whales from a French theme park that was closed down to protect them are destined for a Spanish zoo where they would likely have to perform in shows. Animal welfare groups have expressed “deep concern” over the plans.
Mother and son Wikie and Keijo did tricks for visitors at Marineland in Antibes, France, until it was closed in 2025 following the country’s ban on animals as performers. They are still housed in a tank there, with 12 bottlenose dolphins in other tanks. There has been much debate about where they should be moved to, with euthanasia being discussed before the French government stepped in.
