SeaWorld Orlando released new video of the killer whale who drowned a trainer at the park last month and announced new procedures for handling the bull orca. Trainers will stand farther away from Tilikum when brushing his teeth.
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It also appears by this new video of Tilikum and trainers that no pony tails are allowed either. Folks might appreciate more the courage of a Christian Walliser, who goes back in the cage after a sever mauling, as he can't "stand farther away" from the tigers.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
SeaWorld releases Tilikum video, new procedures
Posted by
Wade G. Burck
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4 comments:
I've seen video of Orca off Patagonia coming right onto the beach to catch a seal. Seems that if the whale was truly aggressive and looking to attack, keeping back 4 feet wouldn't prevent an another attack.
I think they are assuming the high retaining wall will aid in deterring a whale coming out of the water too far. I think it will too.
Wade
According to the Orlando papers, they're not getting as close to Tilikum as before. Longer poles and handles, etc., and keep your hair rolled -up. Word is that Tilikum isn't agressive, just real big with a lot of potential.
As to returning to work with an animal that gave you a good bite: I had a big male sea lion take a good chomp on my arm at the end of a show in early July. We modified his routine (mainly changed a prop) but it took me until Labor Day to really feel comfortable working him. I know some of the killer whale people thought about if they wouldn't be better doing something else. Anybody who's been there would understand.
Jim,
Oh yeah, it is very understandable. I have found, if I am in the middle of a show situation, there isn't much time to think about it, just get right back busy. On the other hand, in a non show training situation, with a horse about 6 years ago, I got eager to get on for the first ride, and had her bolt and fall on me, permanently breaking a finger. Now when I "feel/sense" the time is right, I make myself wait and ground work them for 2 more day's before I get on. Lesson was well learned, and not having a show in a few hours, affords me that luxury, which is comforting. LOL
Wade
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