SeaWorld Ends Orca Breeding, Plans To Phase Out Theatrical Shows

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — After years of public controversy, big changes are coming to SeaWorld park habitats across the country.

Starting Thursday, SeaWorld will end all orca breeding as part of an ongoing commitment to education, marine research and the rescue of marine animals, according to CEO Joel Manby.

"We've helped make orcas among the most beloved marine mammals on the planet," Manby said. "As society's understanding of orcas continues to change, SeaWorld is changing with it. By making this the last generation of orcas in our care and reimagining how guest will experience these beautiful animals, we are fulfilling our mission of providing visitors to our parks with experiences that matter."

Current orcas will live out their lives at the park habitats. The killer whales will continue to "receive the highest-quality care based on the latest advances in marine veterinary medicine, science and zoological best practices," the company wrote on its website.

SeaWorld made the historic announcement on Twitter in an effort to help inspire park guests to take action and help protect wild animals.

In addition to ending orca breeding, the company plans to phase out theatrical shows and instead offer natural killer whale encounters to park visitors.

According to SeaWorld, the new programs will focus on "orca enrichment, exercise and overall health." Existing show pools and viewing areas will be redesigned into a more naturalistic setting.

SeaWorld has also partnered with the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) to protect oceans and marine animals.

The company has committed $50 million, over the next five years, to help end commercial killing of whales and seals along with shark finning.

The transformation will start at SeaWorld's San Diego park in 2017, followed by San Antonio and then Orlando in 2019.