September 2002

Like the rest of the world, WSPA watches and hopes that Keiko - known by many people from around the world as the title character in the movie Free Willy - can eventually make a full transition to life in the wild. After a brief period of hunting on his own and interacting with other orcas, Keiko recently turned up in a Norwegian harbor and has been interacting with humans once again. Still WSPA believes that all is not lost for Keiko.

Having successfully rehabilitated and released dolphins ourselves, WSPA is acutely aware that Keiko is at a very critical juncture. Says WSPA Marine Mammal Specialist Richard O'Barry*, "For Keiko to reclaim his rightful place in nature, he needs to break the bonds of captivity and reconnect with his pod. That means that he will have to leave humans and human interaction behind. This will be a challenge for him, since he has been in the hands of trainers ever since he was captured at the young age of two. Fact is, Keiko's life had become a humanized mess during his life in captivity. I think there is a possibility that all of this could be turned around, provided that Keiko's unnatural trained behaviors are extinguished and human bonds broken. "

O'Barry continues, "At the same time, I think it is very important to take into consideration that Keiko may not be able to break his bond with humans. This particular animal could be an example of human imprints overriding nature and if this is the case, then complete freedom may not work for Keiko. We have to keep an open mind and consider all the options."

Such was the case with the Colombian dolphin, Stephania. When it was determined that Stephania would never be able to fend for herself in the wild, WSPA succeeded in relocating her to a natural sea park where she is living out the rest of her life. Stephania sometimes even ventures out of her pen and into the open sea to experience a bit of excitement with the local dolphins. Although Stephania was never able to fully adapt to life in the wild, WSPA considers her rescue a complete success. Stephania enjoys all the freedoms of her wild counterparts, but also has committed caretakers in her service to tend to any need that she can't meet herself.

If Keiko can't make it all the way home, WSPA would be encouraged to hear that such an option is being considered for his long-term well being.

* Ric joined WSPA member society One Voice as its Marine Mammal Specialist in 2004.