Killer whale Tilikum watches as SeaWorld Orlando trainers take a break (Picture: AP)

SeaWorld have announced that it’s not looking too good for Tilikum the killer whale.

The orca, who is the subject of documentary BlackFish, is becoming ‘increasingly lethargic’ and has reached ‘the high end of the life expectancy for male killer whales’.

In an official statement, SeaWorld say: ‘We are saddened to report that over the past few weeks, Tilikum’s behavior has become increasingly lethargic, and the SeaWorld veterinary and animal care teams are concerned that his health is beginning to deteriorate.’

‘Based on his size at collection in 1983, we estimate that he is about 35 years old, which is near the high end of the average life expectancy for male killer whales.’




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Tilikum was the subject of the Blackfish documentary (Picture: Rex)

‘Since Tilikum became a part of SeaWorld’s family 23 years ago, he has received the best in marine mammal health care and life enrichment available for killer whales – including a focus on his physical health, mental engagement and social activity with other whales.

‘Despite the best care available, like all aging animals, he battles chronic health issues that are taking a greater toll as he ages.

‘Our teams are treating him with care and medication for what we believe is a bacterial infection in his lungs. However, the suspected bacteria is very resistant to treatment and a cure for his illness has not been found.

Blackfish tells the story of Tilikum, a killer whale that was involved in the deaths of three people (Picture: Magnolia Pictures)

‘It has been our duty and passion to make sure we give him the utmost care we possibly can,’ said Daniel Richardville, SeaWorld’s Animal Training Supervisor.

The statement adds: ‘Our veterinarians are focused on managing his illness in a way that makes him comfortable and creates an enriching life.’

Blackfish explores the link between Tilikum and the death of three SeaWorld staff – trainers Keltie Byrne in 1991, Daniel P Dukes in 1999 and Dawn Brancheau in 2010.

Since the film’s released in 2013, the attraction has reported a decline in attendance.