Orka Coalitie

Major concerns about orca Morgan’s health

- 26-03-2012 - Uncategorized

March 25, 2012 – The Orca Coalition is very shocked by the photos of orca Morgan that were recently published. On the photos you can see deep flesh wounds on her head, the result of an attack by one of the other orcas in the park on Tenerife where she was transported to in December. The photos that were recently published by the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society (WDCS) are in stark contrast with the recent positive reports in the media about Morgan.

“The photographs remind us of the very scared Tekoa, one of the other orcas in the park, from which we showed photos in court.” Said Barbara van Genne, marine biologist and spokesperson for the Orca Coalition. “The safety of Morgan already caused us great concerns before the move. Our fear became reality. This photograph confirms that Morgan cannot be protected against the attacks of the aggressive orcas in the Spanish park. The only solution is to keep her and Adan, the other young orca who is also regularly attacked, separated. This is definitely not a healthy situation for a wild orca who is accustomed to living in large family groups. “

Already in December 2011 the Orca Coalition published images on which injuries to Morgans dorsal fin can be seen. “Any injury is a direct threat to infection, thereby potentially life-threatening” according to Van Genne. Moreover, the question arises how long Morgan and Adan can be kept separate. The basin in which they reside will be necessary for the mother of Adan, who expects her new baby soon.

These new facts and developments will possibly play a role in the continuation of the trial that will take place later this year. This court case will show whether Morgan should be released.

The Orca Coalition is a partnership between the Dutch wildlife conservation organizations Dolphin Motion, EDEV – Een Dier Een Vriend, Bite Back, PINK!, Sea First Foundation, The Blackfish and four PAWS.

A bigger size photo can be downloaded here.