August 19th 2023.
Lolita, the 57-year-old killer whale, had been living at the Miami Seaquarium for more than half-a-century before her death was announced. Lolita, also known as Tokitae or Toki, had been living in a tank that measured 80ft by 35ft and was 20ft deep.
The Seaquarium and the Friends of Toki medical team had been trying their best to treat her renal condition, but despite their best efforts, Lolita passed away. The non-profit group Friends of Toki released a statement that said:
"Toki was an inspiration to all who had the fortune to hear her story and especially to the Lummi nation that considered her family. Those who have had the privilege to spend time with her will forever remember her beautiful spirit."
Activists have been fighting for Lolita's release from captivity for many years. The plan was to move her to a natural sea pen in the Pacific Northwest, and the plans were announced by the park's new owner, The Dolphin Company, and the non-profit Friends of Toki.These plans received the financial backing of Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay. He said:
"I am heartbroken that Toki has left us. Her story captured my heart, just as it did millions of others. I was honoured to be part of the team working to return her to her indigenous home, and I take solace in knowing that we significantly improved her living conditions this past year. Her spirit and grace have touched so many. Rest in peace, dear Toki."
The Lummi Nation, a Native American tribe based in Washington state, referred to orcas as "qwe 'lhol mechen" which means "our relations below the waves". They had spent years trying to secure Lolita's release and return her to home waters. Chairman Tony Hillaire said:
"The Lummi Nation is saddened by the news that our beloved orca relative has passed away at the estimated age of 57 years old. Our hearts are with all those impacted by this news; our hearts are with her family. We stand in solidarity with our Lummi members whom poured their hearts and souls into bringing Sk'aliCh'elh-tenaut home."
Lolita retired from performing last spring as a condition of the park's new exhibitor's licence with the US department of agriculture. She had not been publicly displayed since then, but in recent months, new upgrades had been installed to better filter the pool and regulate her water temperature. Federal and state regulators would have had to approve any plan to move Lolita, and that could have taken months or years. Sadly, these plans were not realised and Lolita had to remain in captivity until her death.
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