Defying the tide of controversy and the final date of a lease agreement with Miami-Dade County, the Miami Seaquarium refused to shut down yesterday, continuing operations as if it were any other day, animal rights activists argued in vain for the marine park's closure. In the face of a lease termination and reports of animal neglect, the Virginia Key institution pressed on, sparking further outcry from protestors and conservationists who gathered outside its gates to voice their dissent, as WSVN reported.
According to these activists and numerous reports, the Seaquarium has a track record of questionable animal care, the death toll includes familiar faces like Lolita the orca and Bud the sea lion, Holly from World Animal Protection highlighted the grim reality claiming, “Over 250 marine animals have died since this park opened, so today is a funeral,” during a demonstration of sorrow and protest against the Seaquarium's operations. With her bagpipes and black veil, another protestor accompanied by other demonstrators echoed the dismal sentiment, citing USDA reports of insufficient treatment, a point also driven home by Amanda Brody of PETA who, in a passionate tone, decried the ongoing danger faced by the animals every single day the establishment keeps its doors open, as NBC Miami detailed.
The local government expressed its interest in seeing the Dolphin Company, which owns the Seaquarium, exit the facility orderly and safely. “It is our hope that The Dolphin Company is taking the necessary steps to vacate the premises, and to ensure that the transition is done in a safe and orderly manner,” Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Commissioner Raquel Regalado said, advocating for animal welfare and the end of the Seaquarium's tenure on county land. Meanwhile, the Dolphin Company retaliated with legal moves, filing a federal lawsuit aiming to block the eviction and staunch the bleeding of bad press and public sentiment against them.
In the midst of strife and legal tussles, the stark difference between corporate and community narratives became clear, Eduardo Albor, CEO of the Dolphin Company, maintains his position, his beliefs firm in the merit of their cause and legacy, stating in a somber note, "Filing this lawsuit against Miami-Dade County is a step we take with heavy hearts but clear minds, driven by our duty to protect our legacy and ensure our ability to continue making positive impacts on marine conservation,” despite the animal activists advocating for a sanctuary or proper relocation for the animals, instead of the spotlight of performances and public display.
As the standoff between the Miami Seaquarium and the county continues, the clock is ticking on a potential formal eviction notice which, legal experts believe, gives the Dolphin Company seven days to cease operations and leave the premises if they fail to do so voluntarily by the imposed deadline.
