SeaWorld has claimed another life: Nanuq, a beluga whale at SeaWorld’s Wild Arctic attraction in Orlando, Florida, died while he was being treated by the marine park’s veterinarians for an infection from a jaw injury that he sustained while interacting with another animal. SeaWorld hasn’t revealed exactly how Nanuq’s injury occurred, and the exact cause of death is not yet known.
One thing seems pretty clear, though: SeaWorld allowed Nanuq’s infection to become so severe that it was fatal. PETA is submitting a complaint to the U.S. Department of Agriculture urging the agency to investigate Nanuq’s injury and death and take appropriate disciplinary action for any violations of the Animal Welfare Act standards, such as the possible failure to provide adequate veterinary care, to handle animals in a manner that does not cause physical harm, and to house incompatible animals in separate enclosures.
Rest in peace, Nanuq.
