Lolita dies after 53 years in captivity

By Nina August 28th, 2023

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She became one of the oldest captive orcas in the world, spending over five decades in captivity. Her story became a symbol of the ethical concerns surrounding the captivity of marine animals for entertainment purposes.

The fight for freedom

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What It Symbolizes

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Lolita dies after 53 years in captivity

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Petitions recently gained prominence to release her back into the wild. But before this was due to happen, she sadly died.

Lolita, also known as Tokitae, was captured off the coast of Washington state in 1970 and was brought to the Miami Seaquarium.

She became one of the oldest captive orcas in the world, spending over five decades in captivity. Her story became a symbol of the ethical concerns surrounding the captivity of marine animals for entertainment purposes.

The fight for freedom

The fight for freedom

Supporters of her release pointed out that orcas are highly social and intelligent creatures, known for their complex behaviours and tight-knit family bonds. Keeping such a majestic creature in a confined tank was seen by many as a violation of her welfare.

What It Symbolizes

What It Symbolizes

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