A controversial Florida theme park has faced escalating backlash over the past few weeks, with threats to turn off its water over unpaid bills and federal inspectors dropping by to assess conditions.
A Troubled History
The Miami Seaquarium’s history is marked by repeated controversies and concerns over animal welfare. Once a celebrated marine park, it has faced allegations of mistreatment of animals and failure to meet environmental and care standards. These issues have led to legal battles and increased government scrutiny.
USDA investigations have highlighted troubling incidents at the park. One case involved a sea lion named Sushi, whose delayed cataract surgery caused severe pain and led to her death in January 2024. Other incidents include a dolphin found with a nail lodged in its mouth and another with a bolt embedded in its body. Harmful bacteria contaminated the pools, while a single veterinarian managed the care of over 100 animals.
The park also faced intense criticism for its treatment of Lolita (also known as Tokitae), its last remaining killer whale, who died last summer. Despite promises to return Lolita to her native waters, decades of backlash surrounded her confinement in a tank known as the “whale bowl.”
Legal Battles and Eviction Efforts
Earlier this year, Miami-Dade County moved to evict the Seaquarium, citing persistent violations and unpaid rent. Environmental groups supported the decision, pointing to the park’s failure to address welfare concerns. A letter from the Commission’s chief operating officer, Jimmy Morales, accused the park of “numerous and significant violations” of its lease and “a complete disregard for the safety of [its] animals.” Mayor Daniella Levine Cava echoed these concerns, referencing the park’s “long and troubling history of violations.”
While the eviction order was issued in April, the park remains operational as it contests the decision in court. Seaquarium officials claim they have taken steps to improve conditions, but public sentiment remains largely negative due to its history of alleged negligence.
Recent Developments at the Florida Theme Park
The Seaquarium’s struggles continue, with federal inspectors visiting last week shortly after whistleblowers alleged that the head veterinarian had left for another facility. This departure left only one vet, reportedly unlicensed to practice in the U.S., to oversee care. Two veterinary staff members resigned in protest over what they described as inadequate animal care.
The whistleblowers further claimed that the park, now operating only three days a week, has been unable to pay staff for over a month and is struggling to fund basic operations, including purchasing food for the animals.
Adding to its woes, the Miami-Dade County Water and Sewer Department served notice at the Florida theme park on the same day, threatening to suspend water services over an unpaid $1,263.12 bill. While the payment was ultimately made, the threat underscored the park’s seemingly precarious financial state.
Despite passing several recent USDA inspections, the Miami Seaquarium’s ongoing legal and operational challenges suggest that its troubles are far from over. Public and government scrutiny remains intense, with the park’s future hanging in the balance.
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