Birth of last killer whale to be bred at SeaWorld

SeaWorld has announced the birth of the last killer whale to be bred in captivity at one of its parks.

Takara, a 25-year-old orca at a park in San Antonio, Texas, gave birth on Wednesday afternoon. The sex of the calf is currently being determined.

Chris Bellows, vice president of zoological operations at the park, said: "This is an exciting and emotional day for us at SeaWorld and we are all so proud to share this new killer whale calf with the world after a year and a half of planning and observing and providing all the special care.

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"Although this will be the last opportunity for SeaWorld guests to see a baby killer whale up close as it grows and matures, SeaWorld will continue to care for the orcas at its parks for decades to come."

The controversial entertainment park decided to stop its breeding programme following declining ticket sales and an increase in animal rights protests.

Takara was already pregnant when the decision was made in March 2016 – the gestation period for an orca averages 17 months.

SeaWorld will end its killer whale performances by 2019 at the latest in the face of growing public concern about the wellbeing of orcas, dolphins and other animals kept in captivity for entertainment.

Public pressure to free captive killer whales hit a peak with the 2013 film Blackfish, which heavily criticised SeaWorld for its treatment of the animals.

According to MySanAntonio, the effects of the documentary were felt across the company, which posted a $12.5m (£9.7m) loss the following year and saw attendance numbers fall by 471,000 visitors.

The company said last year that it was not able to release its killer whales into the wild, as those born and raised in captivity "will likely die" if set free.