Killer whale held in captivity for 53 years dies before being set free

Lolita , a killer whale kept in captivity at the Miami Seaquarium since 1970, died on the afternoon of August 18.

Lolita performs at the Miami Seaquarium. Photo: Miami Herald — Lolita performs at the Miami Seaquarium. Photo: *Miami Herald*

Lolita, also known as Tokitae, began showing signs of ill health over the past few days, according to a statement from the Miami Seaquarium. Despite immediate and aggressive treatment by the medical team, the killer whale died of kidney failure, according to CNN .

Lolita, a beloved orca by the Lummi Nation, a Native American tribe that lives along the coast of Washington state and southern British Columbia, is scheduled to be released into the ocean. Supporters plan to create a pod off the coast of Washington where Lolita’s family can swim. Her mother, a 95-year-old orca, is believed to still be alive.

Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava expressed deep sadness at the news of Lolita's death. Cava said many Miamians and activists around the world were inspired by her story. Eduardo Albor, CEO of The Dolphin Company, which operates the Miami Seaquarium, also shared: "Our efforts to give Lolita a chance at freedom were not a waste of time and money."

Lolita is the only oldest orca caught in US waters in captivity. She was captured in the Pacific Northwest in 1970. The orca retired from public performances in 2022 and lives in a 24 x 10 meter tank.

Friends of Toki supported Lolita's release and worked with the aquarium to prepare for a cross-country flight to the selected location. Veterinarians from the nonprofit regularly assessed Lolita's health. In their most recent report, on July 31, Lolita was in stable condition and eating normally, but had some abdominal discomfort. On August 15, the aquarium reported that the animal was doing well and "as healthy as a 50-year-old." Medical teams from Miami Seaquarium and Friends of Toki treated Lolita before she died.

An Khang (According to CNN )

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