During the genius hour expo, I was able to share my discoveries with many people and I was able to have some very good conversations about the topic. I think it was a success.
Today I researched why whales in captivity have a collapsed fin. I found out that the fin needs to be constantly used in order to stay straight. Due to the whales confined space in their habitats they can usually only swim in one direction not giving them the exercise that they need.
Today during research I found out about Dawn Brancheau. A seaworld trainer killed by a killer whale.
On February 24, 2010 SeaWorld trainer Dawn Brancheau was killed after she broke her jaw, fractured part of her back and dislocated her knee and elbow. This was caused when a whale turned on their trainer by grabbing her by her ponytail and pulling her around in the pool. She was killed by a whale named a whale known for 3 killing before this happened. The whale was said to be taken out of shows, but it is still does to This day.
Today I Found Compared Claims Made On The Sea WOrld Website to the actual facts about the killer whales.
"We do not separate killer whale moms and calves. SeaWorld’s successful development of its population of killer whales allows us to manage a healthy population of animals, while keeping young calves with their mothers and respecting the whales’ social structure." -It has been proven by previous by previous sea world workers that most whales are separated from their mother at a young age. They are either moved to other habitats or even other theme parks around the world. This removal at a young age causes the whales mental harm.
"SeaWorld’s killer whales’ life spans are equivalent with those in the wild. Five of our animals are older than 30, and one of our whales is close to 50." -The Average lifespan of a whale is 30 years for males and 50 years for females, but in captivity, it has been said that whales only live to age 20 or less.
Today I researched the mind of a Killer whale. They are very social animals. They also are known as good hunters since they have nO Natural Prey. They speak to each other Vocally and travel In groups. Also, Killer Whales in the wild are not known to be a danger to people.