The Miami Seaquarium closed permanently after becoming the center of protests against animal abuse, primarily led by the famous orca “Lolita”—who died in 2023—and as part of the global movement against these types of marine parks.
Covering more than 15 hectares, the aquarium opened in 1955 in Miami-Dade County and became one of the most popular marine parks in the United States for decades. Exhibits such as Lolita, the dolphins, the geodesic dome, and the landscape next to Biscayne Bay made it one of the city’s most popular attractions.
One of the most iconic figures, but one that has generated the most controversy in recent times, was “Lolita,” an orca captured in 1970 who lived there for more than 50 years.
In her later years, Lolita no longer participated in shows, and her tank was permanently closed to the public in 2021 as part of regulatory requirements. She finally died in 2023 from kidney disease, just before her relocation to a marine sanctuary in the Pacific was scheduled.
In addition to Lolita’s case, other marine mammal deaths occurred there, fueling criticism from animal welfare organizations.
Activists’ complaints were joined by official reports, including one from the United States government, which pointed to regulatory violations at the tanks and veterinary deficiencies that allegedly caused suffering and death.
The Miami government also reported health and animal welfare violations, deteriorating facilities, and a lack of veterinary care, which led to the cancellation of the lease by the operator, The Dolphin Company, who refused to vacate and initiated a legal battle.
In 2013, the release of the documentary “Blackfish” raised awareness about the physical and psychological suffering of these animals, sparking worldwide protests.
The film tells the story of Tilikum, an orca held in captivity at SeaWorld Orlando and implicated in the deaths of three people.
The aquarium closed last Sunday, amid the company’s bankruptcy filing, which set a closing date to facilitate its sale while the eviction litigation continues.
The company plans to transform the facility into a new aquarium without marine animals in shows, but instead with educational, conservation, and immersive exhibits.
Now, with the aquarium now closed, the company is asking for the remaining dolphins, seals, sea lions, and birds to be relocated to sanctuaries.
