VIRGINIA KEY, FLA. (WSVN) - Miami-Dade County officials have announced the county’s decision to end its lease with Miami Seaquarium due to ongoing animal welfare issues.
The decision, according to the county, comes in response to multiple violations and poor animal care documented by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), leading to a Notice of Intent to Confiscate.
“It is with profound frustration that I must convey the County’s deep-seated concerns regarding the quality of care provided to the animals at the Seaquarium,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.
Conditions at the Seaquarium have been scrutinized over the past few years. Earlier this month, protesters appeared outside the Seaquarium to protest the captivity of the animals trapped in the tanks.
“Every day that this abusive facility remains open, is another day that these animal’s lives are in danger,” said one protester.
In early December, three elderly manatees were successfully transported to two of the nation’s three critical care centers for manatees from Miami Seaquarium, addressing concerns about their advanced age and health conditions.
On Dec. 28, a dolphin named ‘Sundance’ passed away after 30 years at the Seaquarium. Back in August 2023, the orca ‘Lolita’ passed away after spending more than half a century in captivity.
“The ones who are still alive desperately need protection as to the other animals who are kept confined in dangerous and dilapidated tanks and enclosures. So it’s really time for this hellish facility to be shut down once and for all,” said Amanda Brody Senior campaigner for PETA.
Miami-Dade County will collaborate and coordinate closely with the USDA to chart the most appropriate course forward, always prioritizing the best interests of the animals residing at the Seaquarium.
“Miami-Dade County values the safety and well-being of all our residents and visitors, including the animals that are currently under the care of the Miami Seaquarium,” said Mayor Daniella Levine Cava in a statement to 7News.
Representative of UrgentSeas Phil Demers said, “There’s a great deal of satisfaction and vindication but, you know, it’s just a question of a little bit, too, maybe a little too little too late for some of the animals.” he said. “I feel the same frustration that the USDA and the Miami-Dade county are experiencing.”
Miami Seaquarium has not responded to a request for comment by 7News to see what comes next for the animals still living here.
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