SeaWorld says it will end killer whale breeding

MIAMI (AP) —  SeaWorld is ending its practice of killer whale breeding following years of controversy over keeping orcas in captivity. The chief executive of SeaWorld Entertainment says that his company's decision to end its orca breeding program marks a new direction for the theme park company.

SeaWorld CEO Joel Manby said Thursday that it was a difficult decision to end the breeding program and to end theatrical shows involving orcas. But, he says society's attitudes have changed about captive orcas and SeaWorld had to move where society was going.

They will also end theatrical shows and introduce "new, inspiring natural orca encounters." The new shows will begin next year at the SeaWorld Entertainment Inc.'s San Diego park.

SeaWorld president and CEO Joel Manby said in a statement that the company introduced more than 400 million guests to orcas and is proud of its part in contributing to the human understanding of the whales.

He says the company is "reimagining" how guests will encounter orcas while providing visitors to the theme parks with "experiences that matter."

The company also announced a new partnership with the Humane Society of the United States. Humane Society CEO Wayne Pacelle says that while his company and SeaWorld had been longtime adversaries, it's time to turn criticism into collaboration.

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The Gayly - 3/17/2016 @ 9:58 a.m. CST