Thomas Cook Stops Selling Tickets for Attractions with Orcas – WAZA Issues Statement

British tour operator Thomas Cook recently announced to stop its ticket sales for attractions that keep killer whales in captivity. This decision is based on animal welfare reasons and concerns the parks of the SeaWorld brand as well as Spain’s Loro Parque.

Both the SeaWorld parks and Loro Parque have received multiple certifications from recognized organizations to ensure the compliance with strict animal welfare requirements.

The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) has now published an official statement on Thomas Cook’s decision, which according to WAZA would ignore and endanger the contribution that zoos make to species protection, educational work and the funding of research projects.

“Thomas Cook focused on orcas but overlooked the ongoing efforts to protect marine species around the world. Those programmes that rescue pilot whales or save sea turtles are funded by tourist revenue. Thomas Cook sold its clients only a fraction of the true story, and could undermine essential conservation work as a result,” commented Doug Cress, CEO, WAZA.

Read the complete WAZA statement here.

(eap)