(Florida Today)
SeaWorld monitors
controversial killer
whale after it
becomes sick
ORLANDO -- One of SeaWorld's most
famous and controversial killer whales is
sick, according to a report from FLORIDA
TODAY news partner WKMG Local 6.
Tilikum, a male orca, has been placed in a
special tank for treatment.
"Trainers noted a change in Tilikum's
behavior this past week," said Nick
Gollattscheck, a SeaWorld spokesman.
"Tilikum was moved into the medical pool
so they and the veterinary staff could
closely monitor his progress."
The massive bull orca is most famous for a
fatal attack in February of 2010, when
Tilikum dragged veteran trainer Dawn
Brancheau underwater, drowning her. Ever
since, trainers have not been allowed to
swim in the water during Shamu shows.
Tilikum was isolated immediately after the
incident, but has since been allowed to
participate in performances, mostly to
splash audience members with his
enormous tail.
Tilikum has a history of violent behavior. In
1991, 20-year-old whale trainer Keltie
Byrne died working with the whale. In
1997, 27-year-old homeless man Daniel
Duke was killed when he jumped into
Tilikum's pool unsupervised.
SeaWorld says its zoological staff will
continue to monitor Tilikum's health closely
and provide him with the best veterinary
care.
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