A Nova Scotia-based non-profit organization has faced a setback in its attempt to relocate two killer whales from France to a planned seaside sanctuary for retired marine park whales. The Whale Sanctuary Project announced that the French government has opted to send the orcas, named Wikie and Keijo, to Loro Parque zoo in Spain’s Tenerife Island.
This decision deals a blow to the group’s efforts, as they had been working on establishing a 40-hectare enclosure near Wine Harbour, Nova Scotia, for over six years. The sanctuary, equivalent in size to 50 football fields, would feature floating nets surrounding the area. Marine experts emphasize that captive whales and dolphins lack the essential survival skills needed for release back into the wild.
Following the closure of Marineland Antibes in southern France in January 2025 to comply with a 2021 French law prohibiting the captivity of whales and dolphins for entertainment purposes, the French government agreed to transfer the orcas to Loro Parque zoo.
In response to the situation, Charles Vinick, CEO of the Whale Sanctuary Project, expressed disappointment, stating that the move contradicts the intent of the 2021 French law to end the use of whales and dolphins for entertainment and breeding in captivity. Despite these challenges, construction plans for the sanctuary in Nova Scotia continue to progress.
While the provincial government approved the $15-million project in October, the finalization of the 20-year Crown lease and federal permits for whale transfers are pending. The Whale Sanctuary Project remains optimistic about securing necessary funding to complete the sanctuary and offer long-term care for whales transitioning out of captivity, underscoring its commitment to supporting whales globally as the shift away from captivity gains momentum.