SeaWorld Entertainment has bowed to pressure from animal rights groups and has agreed to stop breeding orcas.
It says the 28 killer whales currently in its care will be the last generation of orcas at SeaWorld.
SeaWorld has also confirmed it will replace its theatrical orca shows with ‘new, inspiring, natural orca encounters’ in all of its parks.
This change will start in its San Diego park next year, followed by San Antonio and then Orlando in 2019.
"SeaWorld has introduced more than 400 million guests to orcas, and we are proud of our part in contributing to the human understanding of these animals," said Joel Manby, president and CEO.
"As society’s understanding of orcas continues to change, SeaWorld is changing with it. By making this the last generation of orcas in our care and reimagining how guests will encounter these beautiful animals, we are fulfilling our mission of providing visitors to our parks with experiences that matter."
The current population of orcas at SeaWorld – including one orca, Takara, that became pregnant last year – will live out their lives at the park.
Guests will be able to observe these orcas through the new educational encounters and in viewing areas within the existing habitats.
SeaWorld also also announced a partnership with the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).
