Goodbye to Kandu

Today the Marine Connection learnt of the death of Kandu, the Orca that has been in captivity at Marineland, Canada since the mid 1980s. Kandu died on 21 December, but so far no report has been issued on the cause of death.

Kandu was captured as a young calf from the wild near Iceland in 1984, his exact age at death is unknown but sources suggest it could be as young as 27, though Marineland reports the animal as being in its' late thirties. In the wild Orca's have a lifespan of around 50 years, therefore Kandu's lifespan was greatly shortened life due to being held in captivity.

Over the last 20 years Kandu was one of the most popular attractions at the facility and starred in commercials for Marineland where he was shown 'kissing' young visitors. Our concern now is that, with the death of Kandu, Marineland will try and replace him to continue the show.

Marine Connection Captivity Officer, Allan Whaley said "When you hear the news of an animal dying in captivity you have mixed emotions; you are saddened by the loss of such a magnificent animal but also relieved that it will no longer be kept in confinement, leading an unnatural existance, suffering the indignity of being forced to perform to justify his existence."'