Plans are in the works to release Lolita, a killer whale from the Miami Seaquarium, back into the wild within the next 18 to 24 months.
The 57-year-old orca, also known as Tokitae or Toki, was captured in the 1970s. Following long-running disputes, officials have finally announced that they will take Lolita back to ‘home waters.’ She will receive the highest possible care as the team works to make her relocation possible.
Despite not performing since 2022, Lolita lives in a 24-metre-long and 10-metre-wide tank.
Advocates have confirmed that natural sea pen locations have been identified, one of which Lolita’s family swims through. CNN reported that her mother is thought to still be alive. The plan is for the killer whale to be flown to Washington State to be housed in a natural sea pen. She will be monitored and taught to hunt, as she has only been fed by handlers for many years.
Indianapolis Colts owner, Jim Irsay, who is helping fund Lolita’s move hopes that these steps ‘will lead to eventually her getting out of the gate, getting free, getting with her pod.’
The mayor stated that they all ‘care deeply about the health and well-being of this beautiful creature.’ He is very happy to hear of the beginning of the process to return Lolita to her home waters. ‘So many have worked, prayed, and hoped for this result for many many years. The most important this is Toki’s long-term well-being and together, guided by the experts, [they’ll] continue to do what is best for her.’
Pictures: GettyImages
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