SeaWorld San Diego set to pull plug on killer whale shows

SeaWorld in San Diego is poised to pull the plug on its “Shamu” killer whale shows after facing years of criticism over its treatment of the huge mammals.

The shows, which see the animals doing tricks for spectators, will be replaced by an “all-new orca experience” that focuses on conservation, SeaWorld said.

The move was unveiled in a company presentation to investors and followed regulators’ decision to ban SeaWorld San Diego from breeding the animals.

SeaWorld Entertainment Inc CEO Joel Manby said the park’s “current orca experience” would end in 2016.

Among the highlights of the famed shows is a killer whale that leaps into the air, showering spectators in water.

Shamu, the original star of the show from the 1960s, gave the Shamu Stadium its name.

The new show “will include conservation messaging and tips guests can take home to make a difference for orcas in the wild,” said a spokesman.

SeaWorld has faced criticism and falling revenues since the release of the 2013 documentary Blackfish, which showed killer whales being kept captive.